High hopes as Okeahialam takes over Imo basketball, vows to reunite stakeholders, revive the game

By Kennedy Onwunali

Stakeholders in Imo State have expressed optimism over the emergence of Hon. Ekezie Johnbosco Okeahialam as the new helmsman of basketball in the state, describing his appointment as a potential turning point for the game.

The 43-year-old technocrat, who hails from Ezinihitte Local Government Area of Mbaise, has taken over the affairs of the state basketball association, with expectations that his experience and international exposure will reposition the sport for growth and competitiveness.

His immediate task, it was gathered, is to restore the stakeholders’ conference, a critical platform aimed at bringing together major actors in the basketball ecosystem to deliberate on strategies for sustainable development in the state.

Okeahialam, who graduated with First Class honours in Economics, also holds a Master’s degree in Business Analytics and Consulting from University of Warwick, United Kingdom.
He previously served as Chief Operating Officer of the African Basketball League and later the Continental Basketball League, working closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Ugo Udezue, in efforts that helped transform and rebrand basketball in Nigeria and across Africa.

In 2019, he was appointed Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Entrepreneurship in Imo State, a position he held briefly before returning to the private sector.

His pedigree in sports administration is further reinforced by his family background.

His late father, High Chief Engr. Ignatius Okeahialam, was a former Chairman of Iwuanyanwu Nationale FC and Heartland FC, leading both clubs to continental prominence during what is widely regarded as a golden era for Imo football.

Observers believe that with his blend of administrative experience, private sector success and international network, Okeahialam is well positioned to drive a new phase of development for basketball in Imo State.