Skambo Morisson, former D’Tigers player and current Chairman of the Kaduna State Basketball Association, sheds light on the financial challenges facing the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF).
He attributes the federation’s financial woes to a prolonged period of internal conflicts, driven by ego clashes within the leadership.
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Speaking candidly about the state of affairs, Morisson states, “We have been broke for years simply because we have used a lot of our resources in trying to prove a point to each other, and that is why we find ourselves where we are.”
The former player points to a series of internal disputes, fueled by a divide-and-rule system employed by the federation’s president, as a significant factor in hampering the financial inflows to the NBBF.
Skambo Morisson emphasizes the detrimental impact of these internal struggles on the federation’s ability to secure funds for important activities, including participation in tournaments they have qualified for.
He notes, “Federations are broke, as even the budget of the Nation, we have only 31 billion.” The financial constraints faced by the NBBF mirror the broader economic challenges faced by the country.
Despite the financial hardships, Morisson expresses a glimmer of hope in the potential for dialogue, stating, “I can speak to Mr. Kida because at least at this time, we can talk.”
Acknowledging the limited financial resources at the national level, he calls for a resolution of internal conflicts to ensure the NBBF can operate more efficiently and secure the necessary funds to support the development of basketball in Nigeria.
As the NBBF grapples with financial constraints, Morisson’s insights shed light on the critical need for unity and effective leadership within the federation to navigate these challenges and sustain the growth of basketball in the country.
