BEN NWACHUKWU
The Nigerian basketball community has been plunged into mourning following the death of Mrs. Oyiba Veronica Mark, mother of prominent basketball promoter and founder of the Mark D’Ball initiative, Igoche Mark.
Mrs. Mark passed away peacefully on Monday, June 29, 2026, according to a statement released by the family, bringing an outpouring of condolences from friends, associates and members of the sporting fraternity who have identified with the Mark family during the period of grief.
Announcing her passing, the family described the late matriarch as a woman whose life was defined by faith, compassion and unwavering commitment to family and community service.
“With deep sorrow but total submission to the will of Almighty God, the family of Mrs. Oyiba Veronica Mark announces the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend,” the statement read.
The family paid glowing tribute to her enduring legacy, noting that her kindness, wisdom and strength positively influenced countless lives.
“She was a woman of faith, love, strength and compassion whose life touched countless people. Her kindness, wisdom and unwavering devotion to her family and community will remain a lasting legacy. Though her departure leaves a great void in our hearts, we are comforted by the beautiful memories she leaves behind and by the assurance that she now rests in eternal peace,” the statement added.
Her death is expected to resonate deeply within Nigeria’s basketball ecosystem, particularly among stakeholders familiar with the contributions of her son, Igoche Mark, whose Mark D’Ball initiative has emerged as one of the country’s foremost grassroots basketball development platforms.
Through the annual basketball championship and talent discovery programmes, Igoche Mark has provided opportunities for hundreds of young players to showcase their abilities, earning widespread recognition for his commitment to the growth of the game in Nigeria.
As news of the family’s loss spread, tributes continued to pour in from sports administrators, coaches, players and well-wishers, many describing Mrs. Mark’s passing as a painful loss while praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved family.
The family said funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date as relatives continue to draw strength from their Christian faith while celebrating the remarkable life and enduring legacy of the late Mrs. Oyiba Veronica Mark.
