USA - My injury problem is gone – Okafor

LAGOS (NBA) - Nigerian-born Charlotte Bobcats forward, Emeka Okafor said the ankle injury that sidelined him for much part of last season has since gone as he looks more stronger and ready to explode for his team when the new NBA season start.

"My injury has healed. I have learnt from my struggle and the injury is my struggle. I'm back now, and stronger than before," he said.

Okafor who breezed into his native country, Nigeria to support in the Safe Blood for Africa (SBFA) initiative against the rise in HIV transmissions in sub-Saharan Africa especially Nigeria noted that the injury cost him a place in the US team that is campaigning in the FIBA Americas Championship in Las Vegas.

"As at the time they are picking the team, my injury has not healed and I wouldn't be able to play at that time. They taught they needed much fitter players, that was why I could not make the team," Okafor said.

Okafor who arrived Nigeria with Jeffrey Busch, CEO of Safe Blood International Foundation said he teamed up with the foundation because he likes helping people and most especially that his native country is involved, he want to do everything possible to safe his people from the deadly disease.

"My parent is from here, and that mens its part of me. As such, I have a strong connection to Nigeria. I like helping people. Nigerian need blood purifiers, from the kids to the adult, and there is need to help and let them know the importance of it," Okafor stressed.

On arrival at the Nigeria's capital, Abuja, Okafor alongside the Safe Blood International officials visited Minister of Health, Adenike Grange who commended the courage of the Nigerian-born America basketball star for taking up the initiative to support the fight against HIV spread.

Emeka was promptly made Nigeria Ambassador in the war against HIV/AIDS spread.

Before returning back to US, he is expected to visit his father's country home, Enugu Ukwu, Enugu state where he would meet with various groups and offer advice on the need to donate blood.

By Bimbo Adesina
FIBA Correspondent in Nigeria.