Basketball

‘I Have Offered Myself To Serve’ Igoche Mark Declares NBBF Presidency

Published

4 years ago

December 15, 2021

Joel Ajayi

The founder of Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Igoche mark has officially declared his intention to contest for the post of the Nigeria Basketball Federation NBBF President after wide consultation with relevant stakeholders.

A vibrant young man, Mark who is hardworking, committed, and successful serial entrepreneur, a seasoned politician, youth empowerment advocate and athlete, whose core spans expertise is in basketball.

His career as a Basketballer spans over 24 years of experience and active participation in Division 1 and Premier League In Nigeria Basketball.

Igoche has always had a passion for basketball, his first club engagement started in 1997, where he played with the Dodan Warriors of Lagos.

Also, Mr. Mark known to have mentored and sponsored several players that played and currently playing College Basketball in the United States of America (USA). He actively propagates grassroots basketball development in Nigeria.

From 2010 till date, he remains an active member of the veterans of Abuja basketball club.

While declaring his intention at the unveiling of the Mark ‘D’ Ball basketball tournament for the men and Women category that will take place at MKO Abiola Stadium Package B. in Abuja.

When asked if it’s because of the election that the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Tournament resurfaced? He replied saying It has nothing to do with the election. I have been in basketball for years, I have been running Mark D’ Ball for the years.

“For someone to contest for NBBF election you have to be on the board if you on the board then you can vile for the position of president or vice president as the case may be, on my own case I have indicated interest to run or to go on the board as a north-central rep

“Currently, there were a lot of issues with the election the Minister of youth and sports have intervened he set up a committee to reconcile everybody they have submitted their report and we are waiting for the guidelines

“While waiting I have been doing a lot of consultation with various stakeholders and I want to assure all of you today I am here and for me, I have offered myself to serve.” He said.

He assured continued support of basketball in Nigeria: “I will do everything within my reach so that basketball will not die in Nigeria. We must all come together and unite together to bring basketball to life. Let us leave no stone unturned to ensure the growth of basketball.

“The New Face of Basketball Movement is ready to erase the abomination committed in the last four years. Certainly, our local league will become the envy of many.”

However, the federal ministry of sports development has penciled the basketball Federation elections to January 30th, 2022 as a date for the election.

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Basketball

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

Published

5 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.

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