By JOE APU
THE 11th edition of the Mike Uma-Okoro Foundation Basketball Camp came to a close on Thursday at the Warriors Basketball Court, Ilupeju with the campers receiving cash awards and certificates from the sponsor.
For the founder Mike Uma-Okoro, the steady growth of the annual program is a humbling milestone where the foundation combines basketball development with community service. He notes that this year’s camp added more layers to its impact across sports and education.
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“I’m humbled to have come this far,” Uma said, reflecting on the journey since the camp’s inception. “Basketball is more than just a game — it’s a full package. We’re helping kids develop their talents, character, and giving them something to aspire to.”
The camp, now in its second decade, has grown into more than just a training ground for young athletes. In partnership with the Ebere Foundation, which Uma also supports, the program offers educational scholarships and community outreach initiatives. So far, six students have received full sponsorship to attend So Said Light Academy. This year, the foundation is planning to sponsor two more.
“Beyond basketball, we go into local communities, offering educational support to children who need it most,” he said. “We believe that helping a child through school can change not just one life, but an entire community.”
Funding, Uma admitted, remains a major challenge.
Most of the initiatives are personally funded, supplemented by creative fundraising efforts such as charity events and sports competitions. “It’s not easy,” he said. “Sometimes it’s out of pocket, sometimes we organize things like bowling challenges — whatever helps us raise something to keep going.”
Still, Uma remains hopeful for broader collaboration. “This program is open to everyone,” he said.
“You can donate, volunteer, or just help us spread the word. Every little effort helps, and the energy here is contagious.”
Support has also come from his close friends and former teammates who help run the basketball clinic. “They don’t do it for money,” Uma explained. “Even if I paid them, it wouldn’t reflect how much they bring just by being here.”
Two of Uma’s children, who live abroad, are participated in the camp for the first time — a moment he described as personally meaningful. “They play for their school teams back home. Being here shows them where I started, and it inspires them.”
Though based overseas, Uma remains deeply connected to his roots. Asked how he relaxes amid his busy schedule, he laughed: “This camp is my relaxation. It’s the highlight of my year.”
He also shared a few lighter notes about himself: he loves bright colors like red and yellow, and enjoys Nigerian delicacies such as egusi soup, jollof rice, and plantain. “I cook too — with seven sisters, you learn quickly,” he joked. “And when I cook, trust me, it tastes delicious.”
With the camp thriving and new goals on the horizon, Uma’s mission remains clear: using basketball to inspire, uplift, and educate the next generation — both on and off the court.
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