Former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji has officially entered the race for the presidency of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) after months of consultations with stakeholders across the sport.
Quick facts
- Oyedeji announced his bid at a world press conference in Lagos on Monday.
- He has more than 30 years of experience as a player, club owner, administrator and philanthropist.
- His priorities include domestic league reform, player welfare, stronger governance and sustainable infrastructure.
- He served on the FIBA Players Commission from 2014 to 2019.
Oyedeji said the campaign was motivated by a desire to serve rather than personal ambition. His stated mission is to rebuild, unite and reposition Nigerian basketball on a sustainable path.
With experience in several areas of the game, Oyedeji believes Nigeria possesses the talent and skilled personnel required for growth, provided they are supported by effective leadership and a sound structure. He was a member of the Federation of International Basketball Associations Players Commission between 2014 and 2019.
The Nigeria Olympian Association president described the sport as being at a crucial turning point. If elected, he said his administration would build a lasting basketball system that creates value for players, coaches, officials, stakeholders and corporate partners.
Oyedeji, who is also the Nigeria Olympic Committee’s third vice-president, plans to revive the domestic leagues, improve conditions for players, reinforce governance and develop durable facilities. He also wants to restore corporate trust through accountability and use international partnerships to bring fresh investment into the sport.
“The NBBF’s decisions will put the health, financial security and professional progression of players—both in the domestic game and across our national teams—first,” he said.
He added that professional operating standards would be introduced for players, while allowances would be paid on time and broad insurance protection provided.
Oyedeji said his international background, commitment to responsible administration and longstanding support for youth development would shape his approach to running Nigerian basketball.
The former D’Tigers captain was the first African to serve as secretary-general of the World Olympians Association. He said his objective was not simply to win the election, but to strengthen the sport and leave it better equipped for future generations.
“I am not entering basketball to take from it; I want to create a legacy that will endure beyond all of us,” Oyedeji said.
