Sports
NBFF Secretary General’s Abuse Of Office Unprecedented, Damaging To The Federation
…As stakeholder’s worried over her retrogressive actions
Leadership of the Nigeria Basketball Federation is calling on the Honorable Minister of Sports, Chief Sunday Dare to call the NBBF Secretary to order before her damaging actions in the federation plunge the sport into political crisis and utter chaos.
This call has become necessary after the Secretary General, Afolabi-Oluwayemi Olabisi, has unilaterally entered into a partnership with a private league because of the NBBF’s delayed Board elections.
For observers, the numerous actions she has taken reeks of desperation and gross abuse of office, while openly expressing support for an interested party in the forthcoming NBBF Board elections.
“The Secretary General has continued to usurp so much of the powers of NBBF with most of them very unpopular and highly controversial”
“This is not fair to other consistent stakeholders and investors. The Honorable Minister must intervene so that she does not plunge the sport into a fresh round of crisis”.
“Many will want to know how a private league was selected by the Secretary General, amongst all the private initiatives, leagues and camps across the six geo-political zones and given preferential attention”.
NBBF leadership noted that since the SG has become the only person in charge of the Secretariat, as an exclusive preserve being staff of the Ministry of Sports, she has continued to apportion so much power to herself that she virtually commits so many blunders with no repercussions!
“She has taken it upon herself to massively abuse the office of the SG by unilaterally using the letterhead of the federation to officially invite teams and even technical officials to participate in a privately organized league that will take place in Abuja, and this is unprecedented.”
For keen observers, her decision reeks of double standard and clear favoritism going into the Board elections in the coming days, as directed by the Federation of International Basketball Associations (FIBA).
Her recent actions validates the saying that “absolute powers corrupts absolutely” because without the effective necessary checks from the board, she has continued to take unilateral decisions capable of harming the sport and the federation.
The Honorable Minister will save the sports, and indeed the Federation, from irreversible damage by calling on her to put a stop to her controversial decisions, communications and do a lot of proper consultations with the leadership of the NBBF for useful decisions to be taken. Decisions that will bring sustainable growth and unity in a fragile NBBF, which she has helped create and sustain.
Sports
Sports heavyweights indicate readiness to volunteer at the 2025 ECOWAS Marathon as registration starts
As preparations intensify for the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, key figures in the sports and fitness industry have expressed their eagerness to volunteer and contribute to the event’s success.
The marathon, set for March 1, 2025, is part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary.
With thousands of runners expected to participate in the 21-kilometre half marathon and the 5-kilometre race, volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.
Gabriel Okon, the Race Director emphasized the significance of volunteers in an event that dedicated individuals to handle various logistical and operational aspects.
“Marathon is not just about the runners; it’s about the team behind the scenes. Volunteers are the backbone of any successful race, from registration and logistics to hydration stations and medical support. Their role is invaluable in making the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone,” he said.
Application for volunteers opened Monday, February 3, 2025, and interested applicants can pick up a form at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria office, Moshood Abiola Stadium, Package A, Abuja.
Members of the sports family including athletes, coaches, fitness trainers, and others have pledged to support the event in different capacities, from technical assistance to race coordination and mentorship for young runners.
Expressing his delight at the overwhelming response, Okon remarked, “The enthusiasm we are seeing from volunteers is inspiring. From retired directors in the ministry, elite athletes, to community fitness trainers, so many people are eager to be part of this celebration of unity and athleticism. This is more than just a race—it’s a movement that brings people together for a greater cause.”
Beyond the competition itself, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon represents an opportunity to promote health, youth empowerment, and regional unity through sports.
With over $71,000 in prize money up for grabs, the event is expected to attract elite runners while also encouraging participation from amateur fitness enthusiasts.
Okon stressed that the marathon is not only about athleticism but also about making a lasting impact. “We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy beyond race day. It’s about inspiring people to embrace fitness, fostering friendships across borders, and promoting a culture of healthy living,” he said.
Interested participants can register at www.ecowasabujamarathon.org or visit the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) offices, FCT Sports councils, and local athletics associations across Nigeria.
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