Eric Aimé Niat, president of FIBA Africa Zone 4, arrived in Libreville over the weekend, accompanied by Samuel Nduku, President of the Cameroon Basketball Federation. Their mission is to collaborate with the Gabonese Basketball Federation (FEGABAB), led by its recently re-elected president, Willy Conrad Asséko, to assess local sports facilities capable of hosting regional basketball competitions. This initiative aims to reestablish Gabon’s prominence and influence on the African basketball stage.
Niat’s inaugural visit to Gabon coincided with the launch of the Gabon basketball Super Cup at the Libreville Military Prytanée on Friday. He engaged with passionate basketball fans, witnessing firsthand how the sport continues to unite and inspire Gabonese youth.
“This is my first time in Gabon, and I seized the opportunity during the Gabon Cup final to evaluate the current state of basketball here. I wanted to assess the infrastructure and explore ways to elevate Gabon’s position in the sport,” stated Eric Aimé Niat, President of FIBA Africa Zone 4.
During his visit to the Sports Palace, Niat expressed admiration for the facility and pledged his support to FEGABAB in revitalizing the venue. Key priorities include repairing the wooden flooring to ensure it meets the standards for hosting national and international tournaments.
Niat’s agenda in Libreville includes meetings with top sports officials to bolster the advocacy efforts of FEGABAB’s re-elected leadership. their enterprising project, aligned with the vision of transitional President Brice Clotaire oligui Nguéma, focuses on reorganizing and revitalizing basketball in Gabon, emphasizing the promotion and global influence of the sport.
Niat’s visit follows a contentious general assembly on January 11, which saw the disputed re-election of Willy Conrad Asséko as FEGABAB president.His primary opponent, former international player Stéphane Lasme, has since filed an appeal to challenge the election results.
Elliott Ana Wonder and Bétiness Makosso
