Basketball
Eid el-Fitr 2025: A Message of Unity and Blessings from Igoche Mark
Joel Ajayi
As the crescent moon graces the sky, marking the end of Ramadan, the air is filled with joy and anticipation. This year, Eid el-Fitr falls on a day that not only celebrates the conclusion of a month of fasting and reflection but also brings together families, friends, and communities in a spirit of unity and gratitude.
Igoche Mark, a prominent basketball promoter and a beloved figure in the sports community, takes this opportunity to extend heartfelt greetings to all Muslim faithfuls, especially those within the basketball family. With a deep appreciation for the values that Ramadan instills, Igoche shares a message that resonates beyond the basketball court.
“On this auspicious occasion of Eid el-Fitr, I fervently pray that all our hopes and dreams are fulfilled by the blessings of the Almighty Allah,” he begins, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity. “Let us always remember the lessons of Ramadan: self-control, self-discipline, self-education, self-evaluation, and the importance of being a source of assistance for the needy. These values are not just principles to live by; they are the foundation of our community, both on and off the court.”
Igoche reflects on how the spirit of Ramadan has a profound impact on athletes and sports enthusiasts alike. “In basketball, as in life, we face challenges that require discipline and perseverance. The lessons we learn during Ramadan can guide us in our pursuit of excellence, reminding us to stay focused and dedicated to our goals. Just as we strive for victory in sports, we must also strive for righteousness in our lives.”
He emphasizes the importance of re-dedicating ourselves to the will of Allah (SWT), especially as we celebrate Eid el-Fitr. “May He continue to guide us aright and accept our supplications as acts of Ibaadah. Let us come together as a basketball family, supporting one another and uplifting those in need. In doing so, we not only strengthen our bonds but also embody the true spirit of Eid.”
As the celebrations commence, Igoche Mark encourages everyone to embrace the joy of the season. “May Allah shower His blessings upon us on this holy day of Eid el-Fitr 2025. Let us celebrate with gratitude in our hearts and a commitment to uplift one another, both in our personal lives and within our beloved basketball community.”
With a smile, he concludes, “Eid Mubarak to all! May this day bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to you and your families. Let us continue to play the game we love with passion and integrity, guided by the values we hold dear.”Mark concluded his message.
Basketball
Fresh Ideas, Science Needed to Revitalise Basketball —ABA
Cyril Ogar
President/Founder, Amateur Basketball Academies, ABA, Aliyu Lucky Abubakar has called for a scientific and pragmatic approach to rediscovering the game of basketball in the North East.
The former player of many teams in Nigeria stated this on Saturday during training of coaches in Yola, Adamawa State.
Aliyu said the training is aimed to arm Coaches so they can, in turn, reach the children, especially those that ABA may not. The Deputy Comptroller in Nigeria Customs Service decried non-challant attitudes of the stakeholders in the development of basketball in the North East.
” Basketball is fading in the North East, and we at ABA will not allow it to die.”
“Adamawa was once a force in the game of basketball but had fallen behind. Our plan is to discover talent through coaching training, nurture it, and carry it from state level to the national team, and eventually, the global stage.” The basketball administrator said.
In his keynote message to the participants, which centered on the theme, “HOPE,” Harnessing opportunity, Organising for excellence, Promoting players’ development, and Empowering the next generation, Aliyu said, is far more than a drill instructors.
” Every child you see on a basketball court has a dream, and it is our job as a coach to spot it early and give it somewhere to go.” He concluded.
In his lecture titled, ” Who is a Coach”, Emmanuel Odah, the head Coach, FCT Basketball and former National Juniors team, described a coach as a committed, organised, affectionate, caring and humble.
” Commitment is consistency, and consistency is mother of progress; humility comes first because a coach who can not control himself can never control a game,” Odah insisted.
Other instructors at the training include ABA head of technical, Coach Adeka Daudu, as well as Coach Alexander Anyebe Ujoh, who spoke about the relationship between a coach and child in his care.
Coaches at the training commended ABA for its boldness to give hopes to basketball coaches all over the country. They promised that lessons learned would reshape and reset their mind on the job. They said the training will help them in understanding their role not only as an instructor but also grooming the children for a better future.
Among guests at the event include FCT Acting Director of Sports, Mr. Iyiola Ogundele and Bayelsa Veteran Basketball administrator, Coach Tony
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