The Niger State Sports Commission (NSSC) has announced a major investment of over ₦30 million to host the upcoming Bago National Division One Basketball League Minna 2025.
Major Sports Investment for Niger State
Commission Chairman Danjuma Abdul Masu revealed the financial commitment during a press briefing held at the 1-2-3 Indoor Sports Hall Savannah Conference in Minna. The tournament is scheduled to take place from November 22nd to 29th, 2025, featuring participation from 19 states across Nigeria.
Masu emphasized that only teams officially registered with the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) will be eligible to compete in the week-long basketball championship. This significant allocation demonstrates the state government's dedication to sports development under Governor Mohammed Umar Bago's administration.
Strategic Vision for Sports Development
The sports commission boss highlighted that this initiative aligns with Governor Bago's mandate to prioritize all sports for optimal performance and encouragement throughout the state. Two teams will earn promotion to the national league at the tournament's conclusion, providing a crucial pathway for basketball talent development.
Masu reiterated the commission's unwavering commitment to restoring Niger State's former glory in sports. He announced that plans are underway for Niger State to host the 2030 National Sports Festival, making the upcoming basketball league a critical test run for facilities and organizational capacity.
The commission actively seeks partnerships and synergy with private organizations to improve sports infrastructure. Masu called for media support to encourage private sector investment, emphasizing that the commission operates beyond government orientation alone.
Technical Readiness and National Coaching Success
Abdulrahaman Mohammed, the technical team leader, expressed confidence in the state's team composition, noting they comprise a balanced mix of youthful energy and experienced players. The athletes are well-motivated to secure victory, benefiting from the state government's substantial investment in their development.
In related basketball news, Rena Wakama, head coach of Nigeria's national women's basketball team D'Tigress, has been appointed to lead Hive Basketball Club in the Unrivaled women's three-on-three basketball league in the United States. The 33-year-old coach, who made history as the first female head coach of D'Tigress in 2023, has guided the team to successive Afrobasket Women titles and led them to become the first African national team to reach the quarterfinals at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Wakama's appointment to Hive BC marks her first head coaching role in the Unrivaled league, scheduled to debut in the 2026 season. This development underscores the growing international recognition of Nigerian basketball expertise and the increasing global opportunities for the country's sports professionals.
