Sports
Continuity Meets Ambition: Akpata Re-Elected as NCF President, Unveils 10-Point Development Plan
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.”
Sports
PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon Earns World Athletics Label
Nigeria’s foremost Sports Company, Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML) has announced the second edition of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, set to light up Nigeria’s capital city on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
With the theme “Steady Strides,” this year’s race captures the measured rhythm and determined pace that define world-class long-distance running, a reflection of the steady progress and ambitious vision shaping the marathon’s evolution into a global platinum-labelled event.
In a historic milestone for Nigerian sports, the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon has been officially awarded the prestigious World Athletics Label for its second edition, a distinction achieved in record time. This remarkable feat makes it the first marathon globally to earn the label so swiftly, underscoring both the organizational excellence of NSML and the dynamic rise of PremiumTrust Bank, currently celebrated as Nigeria’s fastest-growing commercial bank.
The 2025 edition is expected to attract elite international athletes, top local runners, and marathon enthusiasts from around the world, alongside officials from World Athletics who will oversee the competition.
Speaking on the announcement, Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Yetunde Olopade, expressed excitement about the unique partnership with PremiumTrust Bank.
“This second edition is fundamentally unique because it represents the first-ever true super-partnership on such a dynamic sports property in our nation and arguably, globally. PremiumTrust Bank is not just a sponsor but the sole partner anchoring the establishment, organization, and consolidation of a global marathon in Nigeria’s capital city.
” We are proud and grateful for the bank’s visionary leadership, which not only recognized the immense potential of the first edition but is now single-handedly driving the race toward international acclaim.”
Managing Director of PremiumTrust Bank, Dr. Emmanuel Efe Emefienim (CON) emphasized the shared values underpinning the partnership.
“PremiumTrust Bank is built on the philosophy of rapid, impactful, and sustainable growth, and the theme of this year’s marathon perfectly reflects our operational ethos.”
“Attaining World Athletics Label status in just the second year validates that our investment is yielding world-class outcomes. We are deeply proud to be the sole partner building this monumental legacy, reinforcing our commitment to sports development, community wellbeing, excellence, and platforms where champions are made.”
The PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon 2025 promises to be a spectacular celebration of endurance, athleticism, and community spirit, further strengthening Abuja’s status on the global racing calendar.
Registration for participants is currently open as it promises to be another marathon spectacle on the 6th of December 2025.
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