Uyi Akpata discusses Nigeria Cricket Federation’s strategic development approach following the U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup success. Key strategies include grassroots talent development, strategic coaching appointments, and facility upgrades. The federation aims for further competitiveness and growth in both women’s and men’s cricket, with plans for tournaments and improved standings in global rankings.
In an interview with Uyi Akpata, the president of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, he reflects on Nigeria’s impressive performance at the 2025 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia. The federation has emphasized a strategic development approach leading to long-term success, including developing talent through school competitions, a National Youth Games, and a dedicated championship team composition, demonstrating the effectiveness of their developmental plan.
Akpata shares that the team’s cohesion is a crucial element of their success, aided by experienced personnel, including Kenyan coach Sarah Bhakita and former captain Blessing Etim. Their presence has helped foster an environment conducive to learning and strong performance. Akpata had recognized Bhakita’s potential as a mentor during her playing days and successfully brought her into the Nigerian cricket framework.
The board’s commitment to elevating cricket standards is clear, focusing on expanding the sport’s reach, upgrading facilities, and ensuring quality training for players and coaches. Akpata emphasizes a sustainable grassroots approach, avoiding shortcuts, and striving for commercial opportunities through partnerships rather than relying solely on government support.
Brimming with renewed ambition post-World Cup, the federation is prepared to embrace new challenges ahead. Akpata asserts that logistics and strategic partnerships are set to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian cricket. There’s a significant drive to continue enhancing the profile of both women’s and men’s cricket, with active engagement in competitions leading to steady growth.
Over the past five years, notable strides have been made in women’s cricket in Nigeria. The federation aims to replicate this success in the men’s game to keep pace with the growing global competition. The focus will be on maintaining competitiveness and achieving key milestones through regular matches and strategic training.
As 2025 welcomes continued progress, plans are in place for further development, including breaking into the top 20 for women’s and top 25 for men’s cricket globally. Investment in facilities and expansions in local leagues are earmarked for immediate action, enhancing sporting infrastructure to support both male and female cricket ambitions in Nigeria.
Initiatives for new tournaments, including a women’s national league and international invitationals, are in the pipeline to ensure regular competitions for national teams. Akpata expresses hope for launching the Nigerian Super League soon, aligning with their vision for broader engagement in organized cricket.
The Nigeria Cricket Federation has seen remarkable growth, particularly in women’s cricket, culminating in an impressive performance at the 2025 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. The federation has strategically focused on developing talent through structured programs, investment in facilities, and fostering experienced coaching. With aspirations to enhance both men’s and women’s teams, the federation aims to elevate Nigeria’s cricketing stature on the global stage.
The interview with Uyi Akpata outlines Nigeria’s strategic approach towards cricket, emphasizing a robust development plan founded on grassroots initiatives and sustainability. Drawing from recent successes at the ICC U-19 Women’s World Cup, the federation is focused on maintaining momentum through strategic partnerships, expanding competitive opportunities, and improving infrastructural support in the coming years. This proactive stance aims to enhance Nigeria’s standing in international cricket, across both women’s and men’s categories.
Original Source: punchng.com
