The National Basketball Association (NBA) marked a significant stride in its global commitment to empowering young women through sports with the inaugural Her Time To Play (HTTP) Leadership Series in Nigeria. Held at the Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls in Lagos on March 15th, the event brought together 87 young women for an enriching experience focused on leadership development, career exploration, and the transformative power of basketball both on and off the court. The event, which built upon the success of similar initiatives previously held in Angola and South Africa, reaching over 2,000 girls and women since 2023, served as a platform to inspire the next generation of female leaders in Nigeria. The HTTP initiative, an extension of the Jr. NBA program, emphasizes youth development and underscores the NBA’s dedication to fostering growth and opportunity for young people globally, with a particular focus on girls.
The day’s program was structured around two impactful panel discussions addressing key themes relevant to young women’s development. The first panel, titled “Owning Your Power,” delved into the essential elements of leadership, cultivating self-confidence, and overcoming barriers. The distinguished panel featured Ibukun Abidoye, Executive Vice President of Music at Chocolate City Music and Founder of The Nahla Initiative; Sade Dada, Meta’s Head of Public Policy for West Africa; and Mayowa Kuyoro, Partner at McKinsey Nigeria. These accomplished women shared their personal journeys and insights, providing practical advice and inspiring the attendees to embrace their potential and strive for leadership roles. Their diverse backgrounds showcased the breadth of opportunities available to women across various sectors, emphasizing the importance of determination and resilience.
The second panel, “Beyond the Game,” broadened the scope by exploring diverse career paths available in an ever-evolving global landscape. The panelists included Olutoyin Odulate, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Olori Beauty Enterprises LTD; Titi Ogufere, Chief Executive Officer of Essential Media Group; and Nissi Ogulu, Founder of Creele Animation Studios. This session emphasized the value of transferable skills gained through sports, illustrating how participation in basketball can cultivate valuable traits like teamwork, discipline, and strategic thinking that are highly sought after in various professional fields. The panelists shared their experiences in navigating their respective industries, offering valuable perspectives on entrepreneurship, media, and creative arts.
The culminating event of the day featured a fireside chat with Gbemisola Abudu, NBA Africa Vice President and NBA Nigeria Country Head. Moderated by renowned Nigerian television host and presenter, Bolanle Olukanni, the conversation provided an intimate platform for Abudu to share her remarkable journey in the sports industry. This candid discussion shed light on Abudu’s leadership within the NBA and her instrumental role in promoting basketball and youth development in Nigeria. Her inspiring story served as a powerful testament to the opportunities available to women in traditionally male-dominated fields, encouraging the young women to pursue their passions and break down barriers.
The NBA’s HTTP Leadership Series in Nigeria reflects a broader, global commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowering young women through sports. It acknowledges the transformative potential of basketball as a tool for personal and professional development, extending beyond the court to encompass valuable life skills and leadership qualities. The event’s emphasis on mentorship, networking, and exposure to diverse career paths provides a robust framework for the young women to envision and pursue their future goals. By creating a supportive environment and connecting aspiring female leaders with accomplished role models, the NBA is fostering a generation of empowered women who will contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.
The success of the inaugural HTTP Leadership Series in Nigeria underscores the growing momentum of the initiative and the significant impact it is having on young women across Africa. Building upon the previous events in Angola and South Africa, the NBA continues to expand its reach and deepen its commitment to empowering young women through sports. The program’s holistic approach, combining practical skills development with inspiring mentorship, creates a powerful platform for participants to unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. The NBA’s continued investment in this initiative demonstrates its dedication to building a more inclusive and equitable future for young women in sports and beyond. Through programs like HTTP, the NBA is not merely promoting basketball, but rather fostering a generation of future leaders prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
