Al-Farouq Aminu: “This Isn’t Just Something I Do—It’s a Passion”

By Ball Chat With Kenny

Former NBA star and Founder of the Aminu Good Works Foundation (AGWF), Al-Farouq Aminu, has described his commitment to youth basketball development in Nigeria as more than a charitable initiative, saying it has become a personal passion and a calling.

Speaking during the official virtual media briefing ahead of the 10th Anniversary AGWF Nigeria Basketball Combine, Aminu reflected on what the milestone means to him and why his dedication to the Foundation has only grown stronger since retiring from professional basketball.

According to him, reaching the 10-year mark is a deeply meaningful achievement, as it represents a decade of giving back to the country of his father’s birth.

“This year is pretty special to me because it marks a decade of giving back to a country where my dad is from. I feel like we’re going back home, and that’s an amazing thing to be able to say.”

Having concluded his playing career, Aminu said he now has a broader perspective on how to make a lasting impact on youth sports beyond what he could accomplish as an athlete.

He explained that the Foundation’s focus is no longer just on identifying talented players, but also on creating opportunities that can positively shape young people’s futures.

“We’re continuing to bridge the gap between American athletes and Nigerian athletes, and now that I’m done playing basketball, I have a better understanding of how to impact youth sports in Nigeria. This year reflects that new direction.”

The former NBA forward added that his work through AGWF is driven by purpose rather than obligation.

“I’m excited about what we’re building for the youth because this isn’t just something I do—it’s a passion. It feels like a calling, a full-circle moment to help the people who helped my journey.”

Aminu expressed hope that the Foundation’s impact will extend far beyond basketball courts, inspiring beneficiaries to one day invest in the lives of others.

“My hope is that somebody else will one day be able to do the same for someone else.”

The 2026 AGWF Nigeria Basketball Combine will begin in Ibadan from August 7–9 at the Lekan Salami Stadium, before moving to Abuja from August 13–16 at the MO Arena, as the Foundation celebrates 10 years of using basketball as a platform to inspire, develop, and empower the next generation of Nigerian athletes.