The President of the Nigeria Baseball and Softball Federation (NBSF), Uche Odozor, has announced plans to establish Nigeria as the continental headquarters for baseball and softball development in Africa.
Speaking in Abuja, Odozor said the country was ready to take a leading role in promoting the growth of baseball, softball, and related sports across the continent, emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to talent development and international collaboration.
Odozor, who also serves as President of the World Baseball and Softball Confederation (WBSC) Africa, described the continent as a growing hub for baseball and softball, producing strong, talented, and resilient athletes who had the potential to compete in global leagues such as Major League Baseball (MLB).
“Africa has enormous potential in baseball and softball. Regions like Arabia and Asia are already investing heavily in these sports, and it’s time for Africa — with Nigeria at the forefront — to take its rightful place,” he said.
Highlighting Nigeria’s leadership position within WBSC Africa, Odozor explained that the country would also spearhead the development of Baseball5, which was a faster and simplified version of baseball that requires minimal equipment and can be played virtually anywhere.
He identified the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja and the Ilorin Baseball Facility in Kwara State as the proposed locations for the continental headquarters.
“These facilities will serve as the hub for training, competitions, and grassroots development programs for baseball and softball across Africa,” Odozor noted.
Odozor expressed appreciation to key figures who had supported Nigeria’s rise to leadership in African baseball, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, and Director-General of the NBSF, Bukola Olopade.
“Their contributions and encouragement have been vital to securing Nigeria’s new position in African baseball and softball development,” he said.
Odozor also announced that baseball and softball will debut at the 27th Nigeria University Games (NUGA), scheduled to hold at the University of Jos, Plateau State, from November 6 to 16, 2025.
He described the inclusion as a major step toward institutionalizing the sport in Nigerian universities and encouraging youth participation nationwide.
“We are proud to see baseball and softball gain academic recognition through NUGA. It’s a landmark moment that will inspire a new generation of players,” Odozor added.
With Nigeria set to take on a continental leadership role, the NBSF is confident that the move will enhance sports diplomacy, build regional partnerships, and create new opportunities for young African athletes.
