The president of Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Engineer Ahmadu Musa Kida has reiterated that the body’s under-18 programme scheduled that was released during the week is aimed at ensuring the country gets proper representation internationally.
Sports247 reports that Kida went on to reveal that the NBBF is committed towards enhancing the development of Nigerian basketball with adequate opportunities for both male and female players to further develop at home and abroad.
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He went on to explain that the internal and external targets informed the release of an elaborate programme schedule for the country’s boys’ and girls’ national teams into the 2026 FIBA Africa U18 Championship and other competitions.
The NBBF boss further pointed out that, in line with the federation’s commitment to creating opportunities for Nigerian athletes globally, a training and evaluation camp will hold for Nigerian players in Chicago, USA from July 24th to 26th.
Kida affirmed that the camp will provide an opportunity for eligible Nigerian players based abroad to compete for places on the final rosters, while strengthening the connection between the NBBF and its growing diaspora talent pool.
The final phase of preparation will see all selected players from Nigeria and the diaspora gather in Côte d’Ivoire from July 27th to August 2nd for a joint-camp that will focus on team chemistry, tactical preparation and final roster integration.
Both the boys’ and girls’ national teams will then compete at the 2026 FIBA U18 Afrobasket Finals in Côte d’Ivoire from August 3rd-16th, thereby highlighting the NBBF’s commitment to youth development and sourcing for future national team players.
Kida added, “This programme is designed to identify talent across Nigeria, provide opportunities for our diaspora players, and ensure our teams receive the appropriate preparation necessary to compete successfully on the continental stage.
“The future of Nigerian basketball lies in the development of young athletes. The addition of Benin City to our tryout locations demonstrates our commitment to expanding access and discovering talent from every part of the country.”
