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NCF/PwC Tourney a platform for nurturing future cricket stars in Nigeria

Published

9 months ago

March 10, 2025

By Joel Ajayi

It was an array of talent discovery and unforgettable experiences for players and all stakeholders.

The 6th edition of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF)/PwC National Championship concluded in grand style at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, leaving behind a trail of talent discovery and unforgettable moments for players and stakeholders.

Despite notable improvements from other zones, the South-South male and female teams displayed sheer dominance throughout the competition, winning all their matches and ultimately clinching the championship titles.

This marks their sixth consecutive victory in the girls’ event and their fifth triumph in the boys’ category, reinforcing their stronghold on the prestigious tournament.

In the male category, the South-South team asserted their supremacy by defeating their South-West counterparts, while the South-East team secured third place.
Meanwhile, the South-South female team continued their dominance, successfully defending their title for the sixth consecutive time by overcoming the South-East team in the final.
Speaking after the event, the President of the NCF, Mr. Uyi Akpata, commended the sponsors, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), for their continued support in advancing cricket development in Nigeria.

“For the Federation itself, there has been significant improvement in the tournament. When you look back over the past six years, you can see the remarkable growth in the quality of play. The standard has been elevated,” Akpata noted.

He further attributed part of the success to the inspiring performance of Nigeria’s Under-19 girls’ team in Malaysia, which has motivated young players across the country.

“This tournament is about holistic development, and we are beginning to witness a truly competitive spirit across all zones. I am really excited about what the future holds,” he added.
Also speaking, the representative of PwC, Mr. Tolu Adeleke, emphasized that the championship has successfully unearthed fresh talent capable of representing Nigeria on national and international platforms.

“Today’s final was the climax of an exciting tournament, especially the match between the South-South and South-West teams. There was a particular young boy who entered the game with immense focus and determination to support his team.

“Although his team didn’t win, the tournament is not just about victory—it’s about participation, passion, and growth. We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm displayed by these young players,” Adeleke remarked.

He expressed confidence that the championship has groomed many emerging talents who could soon feature in Nigeria’s Under-19 teams and eventually transition to the senior national squad.

With another successful edition concluded, the NCF/PwC National Championship continues to serve as a key platform for nurturing future cricket stars in Nigeria.

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Reps Security Session: Wale Raji Proposes Service Extension, Special Courts to Tackle Insecurity”

Published

3 days ago

November 27, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi
The House of Representatives, on Thursday, intensified its search for sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s worsening security challenges as lawmakers continued it’s Special Plenary Session dedicated to reviewing the nation’s security architecture and strengthening its legislative response to growing threats.

Contributing to the debate, Hon. Wale Raji Member Representing Epe federal constituency of Lagos State and the Chairman House committee on livestock development presented far-reaching proposal aimed at strengthening national defense and tackling the escalating wave of insecurity across the country.

Hon. Raji commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the recruitment of additional personnel into the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Army. He, however, stressed that beyond new recruitment, Nigeria must urgently retain the institutional memory and field experience of officers nearing retirement.

Raji proposed an extension of service years for retiring military and police personnel—provided they are medically certified fit—arguing that their expertise is indispensable at a time when national security is under severe strain.

“New recruits will require extensive training and time to gain experience,Meanwhile, we have seasoned hands whose skills and knowledge can still be harnessed. The Public Service Rules allow for this extension, and we can consider an additional two to five years for fit and capable officers.”he noted.

The lawmaker further pushed for the establishment of Special Courts or Tribunals to handle terrorism and banditry-related cases. He recommended that investigations, trials, and convictions be conducted within a six-month window to ensure swift justice and send a strong message to criminal elements.

Hon. Raji also urged the House to accelerate constitutional amendments to make state police a reality and called for stronger integration of local governments into Nigeria’s security structure. Citing successful community-based security models from Lagos, he stressed their effectiveness in tackling local crimes and aiding prosecution.

Responding to Raji’s presentation, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu praised the recommendations as “thought-provoking,” particularly the suggestion to re-engage retired officers whose experience the nation cannot afford to waste.

Kalu said the idea could lead to the creation of a special, highly trained force led by experienced officers who left the service due to promotions or political appointments.“It is a very stimulating suggestion,We will dissect it further and reflect it appropriately in our resolutions.”he said.

The House is expected to develop concrete actions based on these proposals as Nigeria presses forward in the fight against insecurity.

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