The Vice President of the NBBF, Babatunde Ogunade, has shed light on the preparations for D’Tigers ahead of the second window of the FIBA Afrobasket 2025 Qualifiers.
Ogunade stated that this is the first campaign managed by the newly established National Sports Commission (NSC).
In previous tournaments, the Ministry of Sports oversaw the team’s preparations, but Ogunade made it clear that his priority is ensuring the players are well-supported, rather than drawing comparisons between the two governing bodies.
Ogunade’s Take on the Transition
Speaking on the team’s preparations, Ogunade acknowledged the transition from the Ministry of Sports to the NSC, stating:
“This is the second window. The Commission is new. The camping we had before, the Ministry was in charge.”
“Now, this is the first camping the Commission is taking care of. So, I cannot second-guess the Commission on what they have not done.”
He explained that his role is not to compare the current administration with the past but to focus on the players’ welfare and readiness for the competition:
“My job is not to compare what they are doing. My job is to make our players who are representing Nigeria comfortable and well-prepared for the tournament.”
D’Tigers Aim for Strong Performance
D’Tigers will look to build momentum in the second window of the Afrobasket 2025 Qualifiers, with the NSC taking full charge of the team’s logistics and support.
Ogunade reaffirmed the NBBF’s commitment to ensuring players receive the necessary care and preparation to compete at the highest level.
With the new structure in place, all eyes will be on how Nigeria’s basketball team adapts and performs as they push for qualification to Afrobasket 2025.
