Emmanuel Kehinde, Ilorin
A new era in Nigeria’s Baseball, Softball, and Little League Association (NBSA), and by extension Africa, were marked with excitement on Saturday in Kaduna at Aso Motel Conference Hall, the venue of this year’s NBSA Annual Congress and Election.
The event began with the arrival and registration of delegates and participants for the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Election on Friday, December 6, 2024, followed by the AGM chaired by Armstrong, head of the Transition Committee.
The election, officially observed by the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) as independent observers, took place on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
Present at the congress were top government officials and major sponsors of the association from Kaduna State and beyond, including Kaduna State’s Commissioner for Sports and Development, Hon. Benjamin Kumai; A. A. Rano (represented by Ibrahim Abdullahi); Hon. Saidu Idris Dibis, Special Adviser to Kaduna State Governor on Sports; and Department Commandant of the Civil Defense Corps, DCC Nkom Samson.
The election was two major contenders, Victor Achakpo and Uche Paulinus Odozor, vying for the presidency. In a historic turn of events, Victor Achakpo stepped down to support Uche Paulinus Odozor, who emerged as the consensus winner of the association.
Other elected officials include Gideon Ayodele as PRO, Robert Obinna as Secretary General, and Oyebanji Tunde Akin as Treasurer. Moni Makanjuola emerged unopposed as the Second Vice President, while Ibiye Martins won the contested position of Assistant PRO with 48 votes.
Speaking to journalists ,Kaduna State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Benjamin Kumai, described the election as a model for peaceful and collaborative leadership. “What we’ve seen today, with Mr. Victor stepping down for Mr. Uche, is a step in the right direction and should be encouraged. It ensures smooth teamwork to advance the association,” he stated.
Meanwhile,Ibrahim Abdullahi, representing the A.A. Rano Group, praised the transparency of the process.
“The contestants demonstrated maturity and unity, creating a blueprint that even Nigerian politicians should emulate,” he remarked.
In his inaugural speech, the newly elected president, Mr. Uche Paulinus Odozor, promised to rebranding process that would elevate the association to global standards.
“This victory is not for me alone but for the entire baseball and softball community in Nigeria. We are one family, and this election marks a new beginning for our sports,” he said.
Mr. President,outlined plans to align with the National Sports Director’s manifesto, emphasizing baseball’s economic viability and inclusivity. “Baseball, a leading sport globally, must also thrive in Nigeria. We will create opportunities for our youth, fostering discipline, unity, and pride,” he added.
The president highlighted his personal connection to the sport, noting his journey as a youth player. “Baseball shaped me, and I aim to ensure it shapes many others. We will design strategies to make the sport more accessible and inclusive, especially in Northern Nigeria,” he stated.
Ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games, Mr. Odozor pledged to build a solid foundation for Nigerian baseball.
“Qualifying for the Olympics requires strategic planning. With our vibrant team and quality players, we are poised to compete on the global stage,” he affirmed.
The president expressed gratitude to association patrons like general Sola Williams and Prof. Ndi Okereke and for their enduring support. He also acknowledged his opponent, Victor Achakpo, calling him an “incredible person” and celebrating their shared journey in the sport.
President,concluded with a call to action: “Let us build from the ground up. Baseball instills values of confidence, discipline, and resilience. Together, we will transform Nigerian baseball and make our mark globally.” he concluded.
