Niger to host Bago National Division One Basketball Championships
Niger to host Bago National Division One Basketball Championships
By Abubakar Hassan
Niger State is set to host the Savannah Conference of the National Division One Basketball League, officially tagged the “Bago National Division One Basketball League,” as preparations intensify ahead of the competition.
Speaking at a pre-event press briefing on Wednesday at the Indoor Sports Hall, Minna, Chairman of the Niger State Sports Commission (NSSC), Hon. Danjuma Abdul Masu, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to delivering a hitch-free and successful championship.
He explained that the briefing was convened to update the media on the level of preparedness for the tournament, scheduled to hold in Minna from November 22 to 30.
“It is our responsibility as a commission to liaise with the media for synergy and coordination towards hosting a successful championship. The media are our partners in progress,” he said.
Hon. Masu highlighted Niger State’s longstanding reputation for hospitality in sports, culture, and tourism, and stressed that the present administration remains committed to the growth and development of sports across all sectors.
He described the state’s basketball team, Niger Potters, as one of its most iconic sides, recalling its remarkable outings at continental tournaments and its history of producing international stars, but however, expressed concern that the team currently competes in the second division.
“A key objective for us is to reorganize sports and restore Niger State’s past glory. We are working to ensure that Niger Potters return to the first division and reclaim their place on the international stage,” he stated.
The NSSC chairman also revealed that the State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, has issued a clear directive to ensure that all sports, not just football, receive adequate attention, support, and investment for optimal performance.
He added that the commission remains open to partnerships aimed at improving sports infrastructure and promoting development across various disciplines.
Hon. Masu further explained that hosting the Bago Division One League forms part of the state's broader preparations toward its ambition of hosting the National Sports Festival in 2030, describing the upcoming championship as a “test run” to assess the administration’s capacity, facilities, and organizational strength.
While acknowledging the challenges associated with marketing sports, he urged the media to increase publicity in order to attract more public and private sector involvement.
“Your support is vital. We want the media to double efforts in promoting our activities. Publicity drives partnerships, and participation from all stakeholders is important to us,” he emphasized.
He confirmed that about 19 teams, duly registered with the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF), are expected to compete in the championship under the Savannah Conference, with two teams to qualify for the elite National Premier League.
Hon. Masu concluded by appreciating the media for their continuous support and assured them of sustained collaboration as the state fine-tunes preparations for the national basketball event.
Meanwhile, the Technical Adviser of the Niger Potters, Coach Abdulrahman Mohammed, also addressed journalists, expressing optimism about the team’s readiness for the championship, describing the squad as a blend of experienced and youthful players, fully motivated to perform well.
He added that hosting the championship on home soil serves as an additional motivation for the team. “The state has invested a lot to ensure this championship becomes a reality, and we cannot afford to fail,” he said.
