Sports

Continuity Meets Ambition: Akpata Re-Elected as NCF President, Unveils 10-Point Development Plan

Published

1 year ago

September 21, 2025

Joel Ajayi
Professor Uyi Akpata has been unanimously re-elected as President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), securing all 47 votes cast during a well-organized election held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

This marks the beginning of a second term for Akpata, following a successful four-year tenure characterized by notable progress in Nigerian cricket.

Also returned unopposed was Wale Obalola, who clinched the Vice Presidency with 47 votes an outcome reflecting broad confidence in the current leadership of the Federation.
And after a succesfull election into the Board of Cricket Federation on Saturday in Abuja, 2025 here are the full NCF Board member .

1. President — Uyi Akpata2. Vice President — Wale Obalola3. South East – Chika Okoro 4. South West- Tayo Atoloye 5. North West – Ladan Usman 6. South South – Femi John 7. North Central – Dare Aimola8. North East – Zainab Ishaku Adamu 9. Technical Rep — Olumide Akintokun10. Player’s Rep — Endurance Ofem11. NAWIS — Prof. Mariam Suleiman12. Sponsor’s Rep — Chuma Anosike13. Military/Paramilitary — Major Monica Wuballa
In his post-election remarks, Akpata expressed gratitude for the trust reposed in him and outlined a comprehensive 10-point agenda aimed at ensuring the sustainable growth of cricket in Nigeria.
“Yes, people have acknowledged that cricket has made progress under our leadership, and we sincerely appreciate that. But I believe the real work is just beginning. This is not a one-man journey—it will take all of us working together,” he said.

A cornerstone of Akpata’s second-term agenda is the establishment of zonal cricket associations across all geopolitical regions. According to him, these associations will serve as vehicles for structured grassroots programs and foster deeper collaboration with state governments. This strategic approach aims to enhance:

Akpata highlighted the significance of the zonal elections, describing them as a breakthrough in ensuring legitimacy, inclusiveness, and transparency in cricket governance.
“This is the first time in our history that we’re seeing such strong state-level involvement in the electoral process. It’s a big step forward.”

Addressing concerns over the Federation’s constitution and electoral procedures, Akpata detailed the efforts made since 2021 to professionalize governance within the NCF.

He recounted how, during the Federation’s 2021 General Meeting, the constitution was thoroughly reviewed, adopted, and submitted to key oversight bodies, including the International Cricket Council (ICC), the National Sports Commission, and the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC).

“Let the record reflect: the constitution was properly ratified by our Congress—our highest decision-making body—and recognized by all relevant authorities,” he affirmed.

He further assured stakeholders that the recent elections were conducted under a transparent and independent process, overseen by a credible electoral committee. While acknowledging minor concerns raised about some election outcomes, Akpata emphasized that such issues would be addressed constructively and in line with the constitution.

“Disagreements are part of any democratic process. What matters is how we respond—respectfully and professionally. We are open to dialogue, but we will not be distracted from the critical work ahead.”

With his re-election secured, Akpata is turning his attention toward implementation. His 10-point agenda, though yet to be fully published, is expected to revolve around key areas such as:.
1 Establishment of zonal cricket associations
2. Grassroots cricket development

3. Expansion of cricket infrastructure

4. Development of high-performance centers

5. Strategic national and international partnerships

6. Youth engagement and school cricket programs

7. Gender inclusion in cricket development

8. Capacity building for coaches and officials

9. Institutional collaboration with government bodies

10. Improved governance and regulatory compliance
Akpata concluded by reaffirming his commitment to unity, transparency, and growth in Nigerian cricket:

“The future of cricket in Nigeria looks promising—but only if we stay focused, work together, and remain accountable.”

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Sports

AACT 2026: 31 Days to Africa’s Big Sporting Gathering in Abuja

Published

19 hours ago

October 2, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The countdown to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) has officially entered the final month, with just 31 days to go before Africa’s leading women’s team golf championship tees off at the IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja.

In a statement signed by the AACT 2026Director of Communication Kayode Adeniyi on Friday in Abuja.

Under the theme “Africa Is Coming to Abuja,” the countdown campaign will spotlight the championship, the participating nations, the players, the host venue and the growing development of women’s golf across the continent.

The 2026 AACT, scheduled for November 2–7, will bring together women’s golfing talent from across Africa for six days of continental competition in Nigeria’s capital.

As preparations continue at the IBB International Golf & Country Club, attention is increasingly turning to Abuja, where the championship will provide a platform for African golfers to compete while also showcasing Nigeria’s hospitality and the country’s growing profile as a destination for major sporting events.

The countdown will feature daily stories, interviews, player and country profiles, tournament facts, behind-the-scenes updates and features on the host venue as the championship draws closer.

The campaign will also highlight the role of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the Local Organising Committee and other stakeholders in preparing for the continental championship.

With just 31 days remaining, anticipation is building across the African golfing community as Abuja prepares to welcome the continent’s leading women golfers.

Africa is coming to Abuja.

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