D’Tigers player, Austin Akpejiori, has voiced his frustration over the persistent lack of sponsorship affecting the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF).
In a scathing critique of the federation’s leadership, Akpejiori lamented the missed opportunities and stagnation of basketball development in Nigeria due to inadequate financial support.
Despite Nigeria’s sizable market and passionate basketball fan base, Akpejiori accused the federation of failing to capitalize on these factors due to ineffective management.
“Honestly, why is it so hard to get a sponsor from the global market? Why is it so hard for a federation to get sponsors from a basketball market as enticing as the Nigerian basketball?” Akpejiori questioned.
He expressed frustration with the reliance on government funding and the absence of private sector investment in the sport.
Akpejiori emphasized the need for proactive measures to secure sponsorship deals and financial stability for the national team.
He criticized the federation for lagging in leveraging the commercial opportunities available in the modern sports industry.
“It’s exhausting,” Akpejiori remarked, highlighting the ongoing struggle for funding faced by the national team.
He called for a shift in focus towards sustainable financial strategies and partnerships to support the growth and development of basketball in Nigeria.
As Nigeria’s basketball community continues to grapple with funding challenges, Akpejiori’s outspoken comments shed light on the urgent need for reform and innovation within the Nigerian Basketball Federation to secure the sport’s future prosperity.
