The 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 opened the facility at a brief ceremony, and afterwards, walked around the facility, which had been given a facelift by the bank.

The PUNCH reported that the facility had fallen into disuse since the 2002 bomb blast. The renovated recreational centre was designed by the immediate past Commander of the Ninth Brigade, Brigadier General Olawale Oyekola.

In his address at the inauguration, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank, Olusegun Alebiosu, said the space was meant 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 is one of those spaces. Positioned beside our branch, it symbolises partnership, presence, and commitment. It serves as a vibrant recreational centre for over 25,000 personnel and dependents, offering a recreational hub where teamwork, discipline and wellness can flourish. And who knows, Nigeria’s next basketball standout might just emerge from this very court.

“Our support for this community also extends beyond physical infrastructure. Through products like FirstMobile for secure transactions and FirstAdvance for short-term financial support, we remain committed to enhancing the everyday lives of the officers, women, and families who form the backbone of this cantonment. We appreciate the Brigade Commander and the leadership team for your collaboration, from remodelling to branding and now commissioning. Your guidance and partnership made this project seamless and impactful.”

Alebiosu went on to express hope that the arena becomes a place where young talents are nurtured, friendships are built, and a strong sense of community is deepened.