Nigeria Joins ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Celebration

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

In alignment with the ICC Women’s Week marking the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, India 2025, the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has hosted a landmark Mass Participation Program at the Centre for Women’s Cricket, Iyoba College, Edo State, aimed at promoting women’s cricket and empowering the girl child through sport.

The initiative reflects the ICC’s vision to celebrate women’s cricket across Associate Member nations while fostering inclusivity and youth engagement in the game.

Over 300 pupils from various schools across Edo State attended the event, with 120 selected students participating in hands-on cricket sessions.

The program provided a rare opportunity for young girls to interact with national athletes, fostering mentorship and inspiring the next generation of female cricketers.

Members of the Nigeria Women’s National Team led the sessions as facilitators, conducting practical demonstrations, mentorship interactions, and motivational discussions.

They shared personal experiences — from early challenges to international achievements — emphasizing values such as resilience, teamwork, and dedication both on and off the pitch.

The event drew notable dignitaries from the Edo State Sports Commission, led by Mrs. Patricia Efe-Amenze, Permanent Secretary, who represented the Commission Chairman, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, alongside Mrs. Sabina Chikere, Executive Director, Sports Development and Operations. The officials commended the NCF and PETS Foundation for their unwavering commitment to gender inclusion and grassroots sports development.

Their presence reinforced the collaborative efforts between the Federation and the state government in nurturing young female talents and strengthening the foundation of women’s cricket in Nigeria.

The program, an ICC initiative, enjoyed remarkable support from PETS Foundation, chaired by Dr. Uyi Akpata, President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation. In recognition of Edo State’s coaches, the Foundation donated high-quality training kits to enhance ongoing cricket development efforts. Additionally, the NCF Board distributed starter kits to all participating schools to ensure the continuity of cricket training beyond the event.

Adding a festive touch to the occasion was the unveiling of the Edo State Female League Trophy, symbolizing a renewed commitment to fostering competitive women’s cricket in the state.

The NCF Mass Participation Program not only celebrated the spirit of women’s cricket but also underscored the Federation’s broader mission — to empower young girls, promote confidence through mentorship, and expand the reach of cricket across Nigerian communities.

Through such impactful initiatives, the NCF continues to champion inclusion, inspiration, and growth in Nigerian cricket.

A similar celebration is scheduled to hold in Abuja on October 16, 2025.