On July 4, 2018, the NBA & the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) announced their plan to encourage social inclusion by developing basketball infrastructure and conducting youth basketball programs, events, and initiatives in Nigeria, Morocco, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and other African countries. This announcement took place in Lagos, Nigeria with the president of France, Emmanuel Macron present amongst NBA & AFD high level officials, and other NBA ambassadors. AFD is France inclusive bank committed to financing and technical help for projects that improves the lives of people in emerging & developing economies.

French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted, “Sports can educate and empower people. I am a firm believer in the impact sport can have on each life and the future of a country. It’s time to invest in sports in Nigeria!”

Sports can change the world and it’s great to see a commitment to improving the lives of Africans throughout the continent through the game of basketball. Excited to the see the impact that this partnership has on the continent and what future players come from this as well.