The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called on the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) to guarantee a free, fair, credible and transparent electoral process ahead of its October 15, 2026 election.

SWAN President, Isaiah Benjamin, said the credibility of the election would be critical to strengthening confidence in the federation, promoting accountability and laying a solid foundation for sustainable basketball development in Nigeria.

Benjamin made the position known in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by SWAN Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo.

He urged the NBBF to conduct the election in strict accordance with its constitution, established regulations and the principles of fairness, accountability and equal opportunity for all eligible aspirants.

The SWAN president also stressed the need for clear communication of electoral procedures and meaningful participation by all eligible stakeholders in line with the applicable rules.

He called on aspirants, administrators and other stakeholders to demonstrate maturity, maintain peaceful engagement and uphold mutual respect before, during and after the election.

According to Benjamin, the collective interest of Nigerian basketball must take precedence over individual ambitions, with all parties expected to protect the integrity of the electoral process.

“An election conducted in an atmosphere of fairness, transparency and accountability will strengthen confidence in the federation and reinforce the collective commitment of stakeholders to the growth of Nigerian basketball. The interest of the game must remain paramount before, during and after the election,” Benjamin said.

Beyond the electoral process, SWAN expressed its readiness to build a stronger and more structured working relationship with the NBBF to improve the visibility, promotion and overall development of basketball in the country.

Benjamin noted that constructive engagement between sports administrators and professional journalists remained essential to communicating policies, promoting competitions and showcasing the achievements of Nigerian players, coaches and teams.

As part of the proposed partnership, SWAN advocated regular media briefings, timely access to credible information and collaborative initiatives to strengthen basketball coverage at grassroots, national and international levels.

The association said improved communication between the federation and the media could help broaden public understanding of the game, highlight the achievements of Nigerian basketball stakeholders and create greater opportunities for private-sector investment.

“SWAN is committed to a professional and mutually beneficial relationship with the NBBF that recognises the strategic role of the media in sports development. We believe that open communication and constructive collaboration will help tell the Nigerian basketball story more effectively, celebrate our athletes and create greater opportunities for the sport to attract public and private-sector support,” Benjamin added.

SWAN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting professionalism, accountability and constructive engagement in sports administration, while urging the NBBF and all stakeholders to ensure that the October 15 election strengthens confidence in the federation and supports the long-term growth of Nigerian basketball.