The National Basketball Association’s (NBA) first Her Time To Play (HTTP) Leadership Series in Nigeria was a groundbreaking event that took place on Saturday, March 15, at Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls in Lagos.
This initiative, led by NBA Africa Vice President and NBA Nigeria Country Head, Gbemisola Abudu, aimed to empower young girls and women through basketball, fostering leadership, collaboration, and active engagement both on and off the court.
The event featured two panel discussions and a fireside chat, gathering 87 young women who were eager to learn and grow. The first panel, themed ‘Owning your Power,’ focused on leadership, confidence, and breaking barriers. It featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Ibukun Abidoye, Executive Vice President of Music at Chocolate City Music and Founder of The Nahla Initiative; Sade Dada, Meta Head of Public Policy of West Africa; and Mayowa Kuyoro, Partner at McKinsey Nigeria.
The second panel, themed ‘Beyond the Game,’ explored unlocking diverse career opportunities in a changing world. This discussion was led by Olutoyin Odulate, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Olori Beauty Enterprises LTD; Titi Ogufere, Essential Media Group Chief Executive Officer; and Nissi Ogulu, Founder of Creele Animation Studios.
The HTTP initiative is part of the NBA’s global efforts to empower girls and women through basketball. It builds on the Jr. NBA programming, a grassroots development initiative focused on the development of youth and coaches. The event in Nigeria was a significant milestone, following similar initiatives in Angola and South Africa that have reached over 2,000 girls and women since 2023.
The evening concluded with a fireside chat featuring Abudu, moderated by Nigerian television host and presenter, Bolanle Olukanni. This conversation provided valuable insights into the NBA’s commitment to empowering girls and women through basketball.
Overall, the NBA’s Her Time To Play Leadership Series in Nigeria was a resounding success, inspiring young girls and women to pursue their passions and dreams. As the NBA continues to expand its initiatives globally, it’s clear that the future of basketball is bright, and the next generation of leaders is ready to take the court.