South Africa has denied visas to Nigeria’s Under-18 boys’ basketball team, significantly impacting their participation in the 2024 FIBA U-18 AfroBasket competition. The Nigerian team, which was scheduled to face Egypt in Pretoria on Tuesday, has been left in a difficult position due to this denial.
The visas were refused by the South African Consulate in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, leaving the team unable to travel for the tournament. This decision has raised concerns and disappointment within the Nigerian basketball community.
The Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) expressed their frustration with the lack of explanation provided for the visa denial. Ugo Udezue, Vice Chairman of the Youth Development Committee of the NBBF, who is already in Pretoria, criticized the situation, stating, “First of all, it’s rather unfortunate that an African country needs a visa to travel to another African country. Secondly, this is against the spirit of sportsmanship.”
Udezue further lamented the denial, describing it as a significant setback for the players who have invested considerable effort and dedication. He also pointed out a perceived inconsistency, noting that the South African Embassy in Lagos had cleared the Nigerian girls’ team, who are already in Pretoria and prepared for their opening match against Egypt.
The visa denial not only jeopardizes the boys’ team’s chance to compete but also raises questions about the diplomatic and administrative processes involved, potentially impacting the broader spirit of regional sports cooperation.