The Grinders Basketball Foundation has provided educational materials and financial assistance to about 55 student-athletes as part of the eighth edition of its annual ‘Back to School’ programme in Abuja.
The initiative, held over the weekend, brought together beneficiaries from primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, with recipients receiving cash support, exercise books, school bags and other educational essentials ahead of the new academic session.
Chairman of the foundation, Umar Abdullahi, said the programme was established to support young athletes facing challenges in combining education with their sporting careers.
“Sports and education go hand in hand and that is why we continue to invest in this gesture,” Abdullahi said.
He explained that the initiative began in 2018 within the foundation’s immediate community before its reach was broadened following the COVID-19 pandemic to include student-athletes from other areas.
According to him, the objective is to help talented youngsters remain in school while pursuing their sporting ambitions.
The eighth edition also featured a tribute to former foundation member Musa Abba, who died in a road accident six days before the event.
A minute’s silence was observed at half-time during a memorial basketball match held in his honour, involving members of the foundation and more than 30 players from the Abuja basketball community.
The foundation’s Provost, Omeiza Aliu, and Public Relations Officer, Alhassan Joseph Enbago, said efforts would continue to extend the scheme to more students across the country.
Beneficiaries said the assistance would help reduce the financial pressure associated with returning to school and support their academic work.
Among those present were the initiator of the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Igoche Mark, General Bindul Ibrahim and Dr Ayo Daniels.
The programme, which started in 2018, has continued to combine educational support with basketball development, with organisers focusing on helping young athletes remain engaged in both school and sport.
