CRICKET: ICC, NCF charts fresh strategy for growth at Two-day meeting in Lagos

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has successfully concluded a two-day strategy meeting in partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC) in Lagos, held on November 7 and 8, 2025.

The high-level engagement, themed around redefining and repositioning cricket in Nigeria, focused on reviewing the NCF’s strategic policies to accelerate the sport’s growth and development across the country.

Facilitated by two renowned experts from South Africa — Prof. Jacques Faul, Chief Executive Officer of Titans Cricket Club, and Mr. Eddy Fwamba, Brand, Marketing and Commercial Consultant with ICC and Cricket South Africa — the seminar featured presentations, interactive sessions, and group discussions aimed at setting new directions for Nigerian cricket.

Participants at the meeting included NCF Board Members, senior management staff, and regional stakeholders carefully selected from across the federation’s zones.

NCF President, Dr. Uyi Akpata, officially opened the meeting with a presentation titled “Our Journey So Far,” highlighting the federation’s achievements in grassroots development, high performance, administration, and partnerships, while acknowledging existing challenges and the need for renewed focus.

In his remarks, ICC Africa Regional Development Manager, Mr. Justine Lyngialigi, emphasized the importance of aligning the NCF’s strategic direction with ICC’s broader framework. He presented a performance scorecard highlighting the federation’s strengths and areas requiring improvement to maximize ICC-supported opportunities.

Prof. Faul led a thought-provoking session on “Resetting for the Future,” guiding participants through key discussions on where the federation currently stands, its desired future state, and the roadmap to achieve those goals. The day ended with breakout group sessions focused on “High Performance and Development,” culminating in presentations from each group.

Day two centered on commercial growth, with Mr. Fwamba delivering a detailed presentation on “Enhancing the NCF Brand,” “Attracting Strategic Partners,” and “Expanding the Fan Base.” He outlined innovative strategies for sustainable funding and brand visibility, while Prof. Faul elaborated on measurable indicators of success for the NCF moving forward.

Closing the meeting, Dr. Akpata announced the appointment of new committee heads within the federation to drive the implementation of the revised strategic plan over the next four years.

The two-day session reaffirmed the NCF’s commitment to elevating cricket in Nigeria through strategic planning, institutional strengthening, and international collaboration.