President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida, has congratulated the Super Eagles for their commendable performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, describing the team’s campaign as a source of pride for Nigerians at home and abroad.
In a statement issued after the tournament, Engr. Kida praised the Super Eagles for their commitment, unity and fighting spirit, which earned them a bronze medal finish. He noted that despite the disappointment of falling short in the semi-finals, the team showed remarkable character by bouncing back to defeat Egypt in the third-place match.
Highlighting Nigeria’s impressive run, Engr. Kida recalled that the Super Eagles arrived at AFCON 2025 under intense pressure following the country’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
He applauded the players for responding with determination, pointing out that Nigeria were the only team to win all three group-stage matches in regulation time, while scoring eight goals — the highest tally in the group stage of the competition.
He commended standout attackers Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams and Alex Iwobi for their contributions, while also praising the defensive leadership of Stanley Nwabali, Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi.
“Although the ultimate prize eluded us, the brilliance, discipline and collective strength you displayed captured the heart of the nation,” Engr. Kida said. “This bronze medal reflects your hard work and unwavering pride in the green-white-green.”
Engr. Kida urged Nigerians across the country and in the diaspora to continue supporting the Super Eagles, describing the team as a symbol of national unity and hope.
He expressed confidence that sustained backing from fans would inspire greater success in future international competitions.
A seasoned engineer and respected sports administrator, Engr. Kida has overseen significant achievements in Nigerian basketball since assuming leadership of the NBBF. Under his tenure, D’Tigress clinched a historic fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title and became the first African women’s team to reach the quarterfinals of the Olympic Games at Paris 2024.
Beyond sports administration, Engr. Kida boasts over three decades of experience in the oil and gas industry, having served in top executive roles, including Deputy Managing Director at Total Exploration & Production Nigeria. His professional excellence culminated in his appointment as Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
His leadership at the NBBF has also focused on grassroots development, governance reforms and strategic partnership aimed at strengthening sports infrastructure and nurturing young talents across Nigeria.
