Basketball

Mark Roars: Says ‘Enough is Enough’ as Nigeria Eliminated from 2025 Men’s Afrobasket

Published

2 months ago

August 21, 2025

NSC Urged for Strong Oversight*

“Enough is enough,” stated Mr. Igoche Mark, Basketball Promoter and Founder of the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, following the D’Tigers’ elimination from the 2025 Men’s Afrobasketball Championship after a 91-75 defeat to Senegal, a team that has proven to be a formidable opponent for Nigeria in recent times.

In his remarks after the quarter-final loss at the Pavilhão Multiusos Arena in Luanda, Angola, Mr. Igoche Mark expressed his concerns regarding the lack of seriousness and technical expertise among those responsible for the administration of basketball in Nigeria.

“I have observed from the sidelines the mismanagement of a sport that has given us so much;one that teaches discipline, perseverance, and strategic thinking. It is disheartening to witness its decline while we feel like mere spectators in this process or sometime we are tagged ‘bystanders.’

“Regrettably, we are approaching a decade without a functional basketball league, which is forcing many of our players to retire prematurely, while others are compelled to accept unfavourable contracts in neighboring countries. This situation is unacceptable in 2025, a time when basketball should be thriving as the premier sport.

“If the National Sports Commission is genuinely committed to developing a sustainable sporting economy, it must ensure that those who cannot handle the responsibilities of leadership step aside. It is time to stop the blame game directed at coaches and players. Enough is enough.”Igoche Mark 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