Sports
NSC DG, Olopade Commends Cricket Federation, as Nigeria Wins ICC Men’s T20 Sub-Regional Tourney
Nigeria’s men’s cricket team has emerged victorious in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C, defeating Botswana in a thrilling top-of-the-table clash on Thursday to seal their spot.
Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, was on hand to support the team at the event, as he hailed the cricket family.
Speaking after the victory, he praised the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) and its president, Uyi Akpata, for their transformative efforts in advancing the sport in Nigeria.
“I’m extremely proud, not just of the victory recorded today, but also of what my senior brother, Uyi Akpata, and his team have achieved with the Nigerian Cricket Federation,” Olopade said.
“When you look at this Oval and hear the story of how it became an ICC-standard facility, you marvel at the effort and passion they’ve put in. This aligns with President Tinubu’s vision of bringing the private sector on board to drive sports development.”
He also highlighted the rapid progress cricket has made in Nigeria, pointing to the recent success of the Nigeria U-19 women’s cricket team, which secured Africa’s sole ticket to the ICC U-19 Women’s World Cup, set to be held in Malaysia in 2025.
“Already, I’ve promised to be present to support the U-19 female team,” he added.
Olopade stressed the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s sports focus:
“We need to de-emphasize the pedagogy of one sport being bigger than others. Cricket is massive globally, and it is gratifying to see Nigeria making inroads in the sport. The NSC will support the federation, just as we do with others. Beyond growing participation, we want to build a sustainable economy around the sports ecosystem.”
Nigeria dominated the tournament with an unbeaten record, securing five wins out of five. Other participating teams included Sierra Leone, Eswatini, Côte d’Ivoire, and St. Helena.
Hon. Olopade concluded that the victory underscores the growing prominence of cricket in Nigeria, thanks to strategic investments and the dedication of stakeholders, positioning the country as a rising force in the global cricket scene.
Sports
AACT 2026: Babagirei-Ahmad Assures Visitors of Smooth Visa Processing, Warm Welcome
By Joel Ajayi
With nine days to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Chairperson of the Visa, Airport Reception and Protocol Committee, Zulaiha Babagirei-Ahmad, has assured participating countries and other visitors of smooth visa processing and a warm reception ahead of the continental women’s golf championship.
Babagirei-Ahmad said preparations were progressing smoothly, with her committee working closely with relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure a seamless arrival experience for golfers, team officials and other delegates expected in Nigeria.
She noted that the committee was committed to providing a welcoming atmosphere and efficient protocol services that would make the stay of visitors memorable while showcasing Nigeria’s renowned hospitality
With about 30 African countries expected to participate in the championship, the committee is coordinating visa arrangements, airport reception and other logistical requirements to facilitate the arrival and movement of international guests.
According to her, the objective goes beyond ensuring smooth entry into the country, as the committee is determined to make every visitor feel welcome from the moment they arrive in Abuja.
She added that the championship offers Nigeria an opportunity to strengthen relationships among African nations, promote unity through sport and showcase the country’s capacity to host major international sporting events.
The 2026 edition will be the third time Nigeria has hosted the All Africa Challenge Trophy, following the 1996 championship at Ikoyi Club 1938 in Lagos and the 2010 edition at the IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja.
The tournament is scheduled to hold from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf & Country Club, Abuja, under the slogan, “Uniting Africa Through the Greens.”
With preparations entering the final stretch, Babagirei-Ahmad expressed confidence that the committee would deliver efficient visa coordination, effective airport reception and quality protocol services to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
As the countdown continues, Nigeria is preparing to welcome Africa’s golfing community to Abuja for a championship expected to celebrate sporting excellence, friendship and continental unity.
9 DAYS TO GO!
AACT 2026: UNITING AFRICA THROUGH THE GREENS.
AFRICA IS COMING TO ABUJA!
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