The newly renovated FirstBank Basketball & Games Arena at the Nigerian Army 9 Brigade Cantonment, Ikeja, has been officially inaugurated by the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu.

Shaibu led the brief opening ceremony and later toured the facility, which has received a comprehensive facelift from FirstBank. The recreational centre had been largely unused since the 2002 bomb blast and was redesigned by the immediate past Commander of the Ninth Brigade, Brigadier General Olawale Oyekola.

At the inauguration, FirstBank Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Olusegun Alebiosu highlighted that the facility aims to foster partnership and growth. He said,

“Today, we inaugurate the FirstBank Basketball & Games Arena to create spaces that inspire connection, support youth development, and open doors to opportunity. This arena, located beside our branch, symbolizes partnership, presence, and commitment. It provides a vibrant recreational hub for over 25,000 personnel and their families, promoting teamwork, discipline, and wellness. Who knows—Nigeria’s next basketball standout might just emerge from this very court.

“Our support goes beyond physical infrastructure. Through services like FirstMobile for secure transactions and FirstAdvance for short-term financial support, we remain committed to improving the everyday lives of officers, women, and families in the cantonment. We thank the Brigade Commander and the leadership team for their collaboration, from the remodeling process to the commissioning. Your guidance made this project seamless and impactful.”

Alebiosu expressed hope that the arena will become a hub for nurturing young talents, building friendships, and strengthening community ties.