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NBA Africa has announced the launch of NBA REC in Nigeria, introducing its recreational basketball platform for players aged 18 and above through a multi-year collaboration with Future Concerns Nigeria Limited.
The initiative marks the first NBA REC programme in West Africa and is designed to enhance university, community and adult basketball by creating more opportunities for participation, competition and fan engagement.
As part of the partnership, Munch It, a snack brand under Kellogg Tolaram Nigeria Limited, has joined Future Concerns as an official partner of the inaugural NBA REC University Tournament, scheduled to take place at the University of Lagos on August 7 and 8.
The two-day competition will feature eight men’s university teams from across Nigeria alongside fan entertainment and community activities. NBA Africa said details of the participating teams and tournament programme would be announced in the coming weeks.
Head of NBA Nigeria, Fola Folowosele, described the initiative as a major step in expanding basketball opportunities for young Nigerians.
“Nigeria is home to some of the most passionate basketball fans and talented young athletes in the world, and our collaboration with Future Concerns Nigeria Limited and Munch It reflects a shared commitment to creating more opportunities for young people to play, compete and connect through the game,” Folowosele said.
He added that NBA REC combines basketball, lifestyle and community, expressing optimism that the programme would help strengthen basketball culture in Nigeria while creating meaningful experiences for participants.
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Future Concerns Group Managing Director, Dr. Eng. Anthony Oguike, said the collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to youth development through sports.
“The NBA is more than a game; it is a global platform that inspires teamwork, leadership, discipline and the pursuit of excellence,” Oguike said, noting that investing in university sports would help nurture future leaders, innovators and changemakers.
Also speaking, Munch It Brand Manager Enoma Aito said the brand partnered with NBA Africa because basketball embodies values such as energy, confidence, creativity and community, which align with its identity.
She said the company looks forward to creating memorable experiences for young fans while contributing to the growth of basketball and university sports in Nigeria.
Nigeria has maintained a strong connection with the NBA since Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon was selected first overall in the 1984 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. Since then, more than 50 players from or with direct Nigerian ties have featured in the league.
The country has also been represented by three teams in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) since the competition’s inaugural season in 2021, while NBA Africa established its Lagos office in 2022 as part of its long-term commitment to developing basketball through grassroots programmes and cultural initiatives.
