By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has earned global recognition after winning the prestigious ICC x Rexona Criiio Cricket Festival of the Year Award, a milestone that underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in grassroots cricket development.
The award was presented in recognition of the Federation’s transformative Criiio Cricket Festival held in Zamfara State, an initiative that used cricket as a platform to promote inclusion, empower young girls and drive positive social change in one of Nigeria’s underserved regions.
Organised under the theme “Breaking Barriers,” the festival brought cricket to communities where opportunities for girls in sports and education have traditionally been limited. By blending sport, culture and community engagement, the programme challenged social barriers, encouraged wider participation and established a sustainable pathway for the growth of women’s cricket in Northwest Nigeria.
Reacting to the award, ICC Chairman Jay Shah commended the winners, describing them as outstanding examples of cricket’s ability to transform lives.
“These Awards were established to celebrate the extraordinary work being delivered by our Associate Members around the world, and this year’s winners are outstanding examples of how cricket can inspire participation, create opportunity, strengthen communities and deliver performances that capture global attention,” Shah said.
The recognition further cements Nigeria’s reputation as one of the world’s leading cricket development nations, with the NCF continuing to champion programmes that promote education, gender inclusion and community development through the sport.
NCF President Uyi Akpata described the honour as a collective achievement for everyone committed to expanding cricket’s reach across the country.
“This award is a proud moment for Nigeria Cricket and for everyone who has contributed to our grassroots development journey. The Criiio Festival in Zamfara showed what is possible when communities, partners and passionate volunteers come together with a shared vision. We dedicate this recognition to every young girl whose life has been touched by cricket and reaffirm our commitment to breaking more barriers and creating even greater opportunities across Nigeria,” Akpata said.
The Federation also expressed appreciation to the International Cricket Council, Rexona, community leaders, schools, coaches, volunteers, development officers, state associations and participants whose contributions made the Zamfara festival a resounding success.
The latest international honour is expected to further boost the Federation’s drive to expand cricket to more communities while inspiring the next generation of Nigerian cricketers, particularly girls, to embrace the game.
