The governor’s message was conveyed in a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser, Ismail Isah, after Abdullahi emerged victorious at the federation’s elective congress in Abuja on Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Abdullahi, who is the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria and chairman of the Kogi State Basketball Association, secured 40 of the 48 votes cast. Former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji received eight votes, while former international player Ejike Ugboaja did not record any votes.

Ododo described Abdullahi’s emergence as encouraging for Nigerian basketball, pointing to his involvement in grassroots sports development and his support for the annual DAM Foundation Basketball Championship in Okene, Kogi State. The competition provides young players with opportunities to showcase their abilities and gain competitive experience.

The governor also highlighted Abdullahi’s administrative experience, talent identification efforts and international connections, expressing optimism that these strengths would help expand opportunities for aspiring basketball players.

He further noted that the performances of Nigeria’s men’s national team, D’Tigers, and women’s team, D’Tigress, in continental and international competitions offered a platform on which the new federation leadership could build.

Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development through sports, including grassroots competitions and opportunities for athletes to progress to national and international levels. He also pointed to the DAM Foundation championship in Okene as one of the platforms supporting basketball participation in the state.

The governor wished Abdullahi success in his new role and expressed hope that his tenure would contribute to sustained growth and stronger development structures for basketball in Nigeria.

Abdullahi’s election comes as the federation prepares for a new phase of leadership, with expectations around grassroots participation, domestic competitions, facilities and the overall administration of the sport. However, reports on the election have also raised concerns about the process, including allegations of irregularities from some rival aspirants. Those allegations have not been independently established.