AJAYI ELEBIRE BASKETBALL CAMP ARRIVES IN EKITI, TARGETS GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH TALENT
ADO-EKITI, NIGERIA — The Ajayi Elebire Basketball Camp has landed in Ekiti State for the first time, marking a major milestone for the acclaimed youth program that’s been shaping basketball talent across Africa.
Now in its fourth edition, the camp is hosting 60 athletes, including 10 players selected directly from Ekiti State without trials — a deliberate move to prioritize local talent and ensure they benefit from the opportunity.
At a press conference in Ado-Ekiti, founder Olalekan Ajayi, an indigene of Efon-Alaye, emphasized the program’s purpose-driven mission. “I’m not here to raise funds. I’m here to give back through the very path that changed my life — basketball,” he said.
Although only 10 athletes will eventually be selected for global exposure, all participants will undergo elite-level training tailored to international standards. “Even if you’re not selected, you’ll leave this camp better than you came,” Ajayi assured.
A notable success story is Promise, MVP of the 2022 edition, who now studies and plays basketball on scholarship in the U.S. “He was discovered here, processed through our U.S. NGO, and is thriving both academically and athletically,” Ajayi shared.
Ajayi addressed concerns about transparency, explaining that all selected players are documented through the U.S.-based NGO, leaving no room for manipulation. “The only thing beyond our control is visa approval — everything else is airtight.”
On the absence of a female category, Ajayi noted that while the male camp will return in December, a female edition could be introduced if partners come on board.
He also appreciated Coach Scott Nnaji, Coach Adeka Dauda, and Coach Rojo Simon, who have supported the initiative since inception and were present at the press conference.
Ajayi said the move to Ekiti was inspired by significant progress in the state’s sports sector under Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Dr. Olusola Osetoba. “The FIBA-standard upright donated by the Governor and the enabling environment gave us the confidence to come home,” he said.
Athlete profiles and camp results will be released in the coming days.
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