Basketball

I AM USING BASKETBALL TO PROMOTE PEACE AND UNITY IN JOS, Sam Oguche

Published

5 years ago

November 21, 2020

By Akin Bolarinwa

The founder of Sam Oguche Basketball Foundation, Samuel Oguche has stated the reason behind the launch of the J-town Basketball Peace tournament holding next year in Jos, Plateau state.

Speaking from his base in the United Kingdom, Oguche opined that the Jos town basketball tournament is part of his own little way of giving back to the Nigerian kids and Africa as a whole.

After more than seven years of helping Nigerian youths through basketball empowerment, Oguche said the trip to Jos is to create awareness for the game and also an avenue to discover, nurture and mould career for young dunkers.

Samuel Oguche says “A week-long tournament which is scheduled for 8th to 15th of January 2021 is targeted at taking the kids off the street and educating them on how to play safe and stay safe on and off the basketball court”.

The Azi Iyako youth center will host the J-town basketball peace tournament.

“The aim of the tournament is to take kids off the streets and give them moral education ”

“Basketball clinic, music, and dance performances would be unleashed during the tournament”. Oguche stated.

Share on Facebook

Basketball

Nigeria @ 65: Igoche Mark Pays Homage to Nigerian Athletes for Contributions

Published

4 days ago

October 1, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary on Wednesday October 1, Basketball Promoter and Initiator of Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Mr. Igoche Mark, has commended the country’s athletes for their outstanding contributions.

In a heartfelt message, Mr. Mark praised active and retired athletes for consistently putting Nigeria on the global map through their dedication, hard work, and achievements. “Your dedication, hard work, and achievements have not only brought us pride but have also inspired a generation of Nigerians,” he stated.

The Sports Administrator urged the National Sports Commission to establish a platform to celebrate these athletes and recognize their invaluable contributions to Nigerian sports. He emphasized the need to honour their legacy and provide a framework for their continued involvement in sports after retirement.

To support athletes in transition, Mr. Mark recommended that “retirement plans be implemented to ensure a seamless transition into life after sports. This would enable athletes to plan for their future and maximize their post-athletic careers.”

Furthermore, he proposed a welfare package for retired athletes, including access to healthcare, education, and economic empowerment programs. “By doing so, we can show our appreciation for their service and ensure that they are taken care of,” Mr. Mark added.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary on October 1, with the theme “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” Mr. Mark’s sentiments echo the sentiments of many Nigerians who believe in the importance of recognizing and supporting the country’s athletes.

Share on Facebook