Former NBA champion and basketball executive Masai Ujiri has expressed his willingness to support the development of sports infrastructure in Nigeria following a meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Kigali.
Speaking after the meeting, Ujiri revealed that discussions focused on areas of urgent national need, particularly sports entertainment and infrastructure development.
“I want to help build Nigeria’s sports infrastructure,” he said.
According to the basketball executive, the purpose of the engagement was to explore how sports can contribute more meaningfully to national growth and youth development.
“We discussed critical areas of need,” he implied.
Ujiri also disclosed that he is prepared to partner directly with the Nigerian government to help finance and develop sports facilities across the country.
“I’m willing to invest personally,” he noted.
The Nigerian-born executive, who has held major leadership roles in the NBA including with the Dallas Mavericks, stressed that improving infrastructure is essential for unlocking the country’s sporting potential.
“Facilities change everything,” he added.
For Ujiri, modern sports infrastructure can create opportunities for young athletes while also boosting entertainment, business, and community development.
“Sports can transform lives,” he stressed.
Nigeria has continued facing criticism over inadequate sporting facilities despite producing world-class athletes across multiple sports.
“There is huge potential waiting to be unlocked,” many observers believe.
For Ujiri, the message is clear.
Invest in infrastructure.
Support young talents.
And build long-term sporting systems.
Because sustainable sporting success begins with quality facilities and proper development structures.
