Only NBBF congress can effect changes to it’s statute, says NOC trustee, Dr Lanre Glover

By Ifeanyi Eduzor

The Vice Chairman of the ad-hoc constitutional review committee inaugurated early this month by the President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Engineer Ahmadu Musa Kida, Dr. Lanre Glover said that the committee is not aimed at producing a new or revised statute for the Federation
Glover, an accomplished medical Doctor and a renowned sports administrator, explained that the powers to amend the NBBF constitution rest in the hands of the NBBF Congress.
“The current statute of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) approved by Federation of International Basketball Associations (FIBA), Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) and the Sports Ministry became fully operational after the Election Congress in Benin. Article 38 on amendment, clearly states that: these statutes shall not be amended except at a Congress by a resolution carried by two third (2/3) majority of those present and entitled to vote.” Dr Glover, a Trustee of the NOC stated.
Glover who was the first Nigeria Sports Federation President to be democratically elected said from the above article, it is clear that the powers to alter the constitution solely rest on the Congress of NBBF.
According to him, the objective of the constitutional review committee currently meeting is to review all proposals sent to it and make recommendations with reasons on what they consider the proposal should look like.
“Being an independent body with at least two jurists including a retired Chief Judge who is the chairman of the committee, we believe our opinion should carry a lot of weight though the final decision rests with the congress of the NBBF.” he stressed
The former Vice President African Handball Confederation, implored various stakeholders in the slamming and dunking game to take advantage of the opportunity to send proposals they deem necessary to help the committee achieve it goals and objectives.
“No statute or constitution is perfect and it is dynamic. Changes will be effected as deemed necessary during the ordinary congress of the NBBF. I think it is time for a lasting peace in the basketball family, as there is no victor and no vanquish as everybody is a winner.” The former President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria and Nigerian Triathlon Union noted.”
Dr Lanre Glover, a former member of International Handball Federation Arbitration Tribunal however implored
the leadership of the NBBF under Engr. Musa Kida to bring everybody into the tent in the interest of lasting peace.
“Nigerian basketball has reached a great height and can not afford to descend low. My appeal is that all stakeholders should fully engage with proposals they consider will be beneficial to the game.”
The Life Patron Nigerian Triathlon Union concluded by assuring Nigerians that they will do an honest and equitable job that all will be proud of which shall also serve as a reference point for other sporting Federations and Associations as well as assist the NBBF to thrive.