Sports

Nigeria beats Botswana, Lifts WCQ Trophy in Abuja

Published

3 weeks ago

November 29, 2024

Joel Ajayi

Nigeria Men’s cricket team have emerged the winner of the International Cricket Council T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier C concluded at the cricket oval of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Thursday November 28, 2024.

Nigeria beat Botswana by 77 runs to seal their unbeaten run in the five match World Cup Qualifier.

The Director General of the Nigeria Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, at the event said the victory is a perfect ending to a brilliant showing of all the team at Nigeria Cricket Federation led by Uyi Akpata.

He said, “I am very impressed at the level of professionalism displayed and this is what we encourage as a Commission. Nigeria didn’t just qualify and win the event, the team that staged this event has shown leadership and professionalism and we are proud of them.”

Olopade said the cricket has consistently shown potential for social development.

“We must commend the leadership of Nigeria Cricket Federation. Our Under girls would be at the Cricket World Cup in Malaysia in January, and now our boys are through to the last stage of the 2025 T20 Men’s World Cup. They deserve all the support we can give them. And as a commission we are determined to give support to other sports other than the popular ones,” the NSC DG said.

President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Uyi Akpata, said that hosting these African countries in Abuja during the series has thrown up Nigeria as cricket destination beside investment in talent development.

“We are excited to have hosted these countries; Botswana, Cote D’Ivoire, Eswatini, St. Helena and Sierra Leone. I believe the quality of our grounds and our organization clearly have communicated our readiness to host more top class cricket events,” Akpata said.

In the match against Nigeria and Botswana, Nigeria won the toss and elected to bat first, and set 13.00 in the first over to signal a high scorning inning. Tharindu Perera, stepped up got the wicket of opener Selim Salau 1(4) with the last ball of the second over douse the two quick overs.

Isaac Danladi came on and paired Sulaimon Runsewe to a partnership of 140. Danladi’s brilliant knock of 80 off 45 along with Runsewe’s 74 off 53 kept Nigeria in contention and sent pressure to the Baggy Blues of Botswana.

The Yellow-Green did not to sweat much as the 181/5 score simply put the game beyond the visitors, they were all out for 104 in 18.2 overs. Nigeria won by 77 runs.
In earlier matches St. Helena beat Cote D’Ivoire by 10 wickets to seal the 5th spot on the log while Sierrai Leon ran through Eswatini in 12.3 overs winning with 109 runs.

Nigeria and Botswana are now to meet successful teams from the earlier qualifiers (Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Kenya) and Africa’s representatives at the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup who are drawn bye (Namibia and Uganda) and will jostle for Africa two spots at the Men’s T20 World Cup in 2025.

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Sports

Governor Dapo Abiodun Has Reawakened the Sleeping Giant in Sports in Ogun State, Says Hon. Bukola Olopade

Published

8 hours ago

December 22, 2024

The Gleamer

Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has stated that Ogun State is witnessing a transformative era in sports development under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, as the state prepares to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed “Ogun 2024.”

Speaking about the governor’s achievements, Hon. Olopade stated, “Even before the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) was constituted, when Nilayo Sports Management bidded on behalf of Ogun State, it was evident Ogun was ready. During recent inspections, technical directors from various states applauded the facilities they saw. It was gratifying to know Ogun State’s readiness was evident.”

Reflecting on past challenges, the former commissioner for sports in Ogun, said the legacy he left after office was destroyed and sports looked doomed “until Governor Dapo Abiodun started reawakening the sleeping giant in sports.”

Governor Abiodun’s administration has prioritized youth empowerment through sports, focusing on grassroots promotion, infrastructure development and talent development. His vision for sports transcends mere entertainment, aiming to build an industry that empowers the youth and attracts investments to Ogun State.

Preparations for the National Sports Festival have been ongoing in the State, with massive renovations and constructions across the state. The MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta has seen its VIP section upgraded, the football pitch replaced, tracks have undergone refurbishment, and a brand-new swimming pool is being constructed.

Two state-of-the-art tennis courts and handball courts have been built to reduce reliance on the Abeokuta Sports Club facilities, while the Alake Sports Complex, Ijeja, Abeokuta has been undergoing comprehensive renovation.

Hon. Olopade emphasized the governor’s commitment to sustaining and advancing Ogun State’s sporting legacy. “Governor Abiodun’s investments in sports and youth empowerment are unparalleled. His administration has a clear vision to turn sports into a thriving industry, and the successful bid to host Ogun 2024 is a testament to his dedication.”

With the festival drawing closer, Ogun State’s commitment to excellence is evident. Governor Dapo Abiodun’s efforts have not only revived sports in the state but also laid the foundation for a lasting legacy that will benefit generations to come.

Gateway Games 2024 has promises written all over it, to be a landmark event, showcasing the state’s readiness and Governor Abiodun’s transformative impact on sports development.

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