Masai Ujiri, co-founder of the Giants of Africa and president of the Dallas Mavericks, has called on Nigerian governments and institutions to prioritize the maintenance of public infrastructure. Speaking at the launch of the 50th basketball court under the Giants of Africa 'Built Within' initiative at King's College, Lagos, Ujiri emphasized the need to preserve existing facilities rather than constructing new ones that quickly fall into disrepair.
Ujiri's Remarks on Infrastructure
Ujiri, a former Toronto Raptors president and NBA champion, expressed joy at reaching the milestone of 50 courts, but lamented the poor state of King's College. He stated, 'It is a thing of joy to have the 50th court, but the school's structures are nothing to write home about. A modern basketball facility does not sync with the dilapidated buildings here. I challenge the school administration and government to urgently uplift the school.'
Call for National Stadium Overhaul
Ujiri has consistently advocated for the rehabilitation of the National Stadium in Lagos, which has been unused for over a decade. He remarked, 'These buildings are well built but need facelifts, like many facilities in Nigeria. How can the National Stadium remain in disrepair for years? As the largest Black nation, Nigeria must lead in all areas, including sports infrastructure.'
The event underscored the Giants of Africa's commitment to empowering young Africans through basketball, with plans to build 100 courts across the continent. Ujiri urged stakeholders to treat sports as a serious business and invest in facility maintenance to foster sporting excellence.
