Explosive NBA Response: ‘Rivers Money Was Not A Loan’ – Denies Ibas’ Refund Request

In a statement issued on Monday, the NBA addressed Ibas’ request for a refund, clarifying that the ₦300 million contribution from Rivers State was a gift, not tied to any hosting rights for the conference. The statement, delivered by Emeka Obegolu (SAN), Chairman of the NBA Conference Planning Committee, dismissed the allegations, emphasizing that the NBA routinely seeks financial support for its AGC events, which is entirely unconditional and not associated with any hosting rights.

The statement read, “The attention of the Annual General Conference Planning Committee has been drawn to a statement credited to the Administrator of Rivers State, suggesting that the Rivers State government paid hosting rights for the NBA AGC 2025.”

It further explained, “The decision to host the 2025 AGC in Port Harcourt was made in August 2024, and there was no bidding process or payment of hosting rights involved. The host city has no exclusive hosting rights, and there was no representation by the NBA that the conference must be held in a specific city.”

“Traditionally, due to the significant cost of hosting the AGC, the NBA Conference Planning Committee seeks support from organizations, government agencies, and state governments. This support is entirely unconditional and is not linked to any hosting rights or obligations.”

The statement also clarified that past NBA conferences have been financially supported by various state governments, corporate entities, and public institutions, with the contributions taking the form of gifts, partnerships, or sponsorships.

“The financial support from Rivers State was simply a gift and was not tied to any claimed hosting rights for the NBA AGC,” the statement concluded, reaffirming the NBA’s commitment to organizing a world-class conference and distancing itself from any unnecessary controversy on the matter.