Abuja to Host First Amateur Basketball Tournament

The inaugural Abuja Amateur Basketball tournament is set to feature 20 academies, aimed at fostering grassroots basketball development in Nigeria. The initiative, founded by Lucki Abubakar and supported by Aliyu, Deputy Controller of Nigeria Customs Service, is scheduled for July 2026.

Abubakar, who has a two-decade playing career, emphasized the need for structured opportunities for young athletes to reach their full potential. The tournament will include both male and female categories and is designed to revive community basketball, providing exposure for young players.

HRH Sir Ez Ifeanyi Ek, Chairman of the FCT Basketball Caretaker Committee, stressed the importance of sustained investment in grassroots basketball development. The initiative also aims to instill values such as discipline, leadership, and teamwork among participants, preparing them for future opportunities in international basketball.

The program is expected to expand to other states in the future, with a focus on keeping children off the streets and promoting sportsmanship.