Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has pledged his administration’s support for the development of basketball in partnership with the Nigerian leadership of the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Speaking during a courtesy visit by NBA Nigeria officials led by NBA Africa investor, Mr. Tunde Folawiyo, at Lagos House, Marina, the Governor said the collaboration will create opportunities for young athletes to thrive while positioning Lagos as a hub for sporting excellence.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the NBA Nigeria vision — which focuses on creating pathways for young athletes through growth, exposure, and international recognition — aligns with his government’s strategy to use sports as a tool for empowerment, social inclusion, and economic growth.
“For us as a government, we are meant to encourage the private sector and be a strong enabler. We will work with you to identify programmes, provide infrastructure, and ensure that in almost all our sporting facilities we develop basketball courts,” the Governor said.
He revealed that his administration is constructing 10 mini stadia across Lagos, each of which will include basketball courts to encourage grassroots participation.
Commending the efforts of NBA Africa and its local partners, Sanwo-Olu praised Folawiyo and his team for their commitment to growing the game on the continent.
In his remarks, Folawiyo lauded the Governor’s achievements in sports and infrastructure, expressing readiness to work with the state to grow basketball beyond just the game. He highlighted NBA Africa’s commitment to grassroots development, attracting investment, strengthening infrastructure, and training coaches and technical experts.
“As a proud Lagosian, I commend Governor Sanwo-Olu for the support he has given us so far. We want to do more — to build a strong grassroots base, raise more NBA players from Africa, and develop a competitive franchise league across African cities,” Folawiyo said.
The meeting underscored Lagos State’s ambition to not only grow basketball at the grassroots but also to establish itself as a leading sports destination in Africa.