Nigeria Under-18 Basketball Teams Gear Up for Zonal Qualifiers in Abidjan

The Nigerian Under-18 basketball teams are set to compete in the Zonal Qualifiers, starting tomorrow Wednesday July 31 and running through Sunday, August 4, in Abidjan. This pivotal tournament will showcase Nigeria's emerging talent as they vie for a spot in the African finals, slated to be held later in South Africa.

Ugo Udezue, Leader of Delegation and Vice Chairman of the Youth Committee on the Board of the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF), expressed his appreciation for the support received from the Ministry of Sports Development and the Nigerian government. He emphasized the federation’s commitment to its developmental goals, despite the logistical challenges involved in preparing and transporting the teams from Lagos to Abidjan.

“The determination to pursue quality youth programs has driven us this far,” Udezue noted. “Our focus remains on developing these young athletes for long-term success. We are grateful for the platform that has been provided for them.”

The U18 boys' team, coached by Fubara Onyanabo, features a roster brimming with talent, including Bassey Ekpo Effiong, Abraham Boyce Hart, Sani Samuel, Azeez Suleiman Olaitan, Daubuna Ibrahimdau-Mutum, John Wilberforce, and Precious Johha, among others. Meanwhile, the girls' team, led by former national point guard Juliana Akhere, includes Tewogbade Ayomide, Gbemisola Samuel, Khadijat Garba, Amarachi Umeh, Chiamaka Mgbon, Osaretin Samuel, Chiamaka Iwuji, and Olanrewaju Ayodeji.

As the teams prepare to showcase their skills, the best performers from these zonal qualifiers will advance to the African finals in South Africa. The NBBF’s focus on youth development continues to drive these athletes towards achieving excellence on the continental stage.