In a move to boost basketball development in Lagos, the state government has entered into a partnership with the Nigerian arm of the National Basketball Association (NBA) following a high-level meeting with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, The PUNCH reports.
A delegation from NBA Nigeria, which included former Nigerian-American player and current ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike, visited the governor at Lagos House, Marina, to present plans for the sport’s strategic growth in the state.
Sanwo-Olu, in a post on his official X account, described the engagement as “productive,” stressing the role of sports in youth development and community building. He noted that the NBA team reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots basketball, while also pledging to leverage its global network to attract investment, improve sports infrastructure, and enhance the capacity of local coaches and technical staff.
According to the governor, the collaboration will also focus on creating pathways for young athletes to gain exposure, international recognition, and career opportunities. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with his administration’s vision of using sports as a driver of empowerment, social development, and economic growth.
“Together, we can unlock the potential of our young people and further establish Lagos as a hub for sporting excellence,” Sanwo-Olu concluded.