The re-elected president of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Uyi Akpata, has unveiled a 10-point agenda aimed at strengthening cricket development in the country.

Mr Akpata said this on Monday, following his victory in the NCF elections. Mr Akpata was returned unopposed for a second four-year term after securing all 47 votes cast during Saturday’s polls at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Also re-elected unopposed was Wale Obalola, who retained his position as vice-president, with 47 votes.

Mr Akpata said his immediate priority would be to establish zonal cricket associations across the six geopolitical zones with a focus on grassroots growth, zonal structures, infrastructure development, and governance reforms.

He explained that the zonal bodies would help drive grassroots programmes and promote closer partnerships with state governments.

“This is not a one-man journey; it will take all of us working together,” he said.

He described the recent zonal elections as a major milestone in enhancing legitimacy and inclusiveness in cricket governance.

“This is the first time we’re seeing such strong state-level involvement. It’s a big step forward,” Mr Akpata said.

Mr Akpata said the federation would also invest in cricket infrastructure and set up high-performance centres to support elite athletes.

He noted that youth development through school cricket programmes remained a key part of the agenda.

According to him, the NCF will promote gender inclusion and expand participation through policies that support female athletes.

He added that capacity building for coaches and officials would be strengthened, alongside increased institutional collaboration with government and international partners.

Mr Akpata said the administration would prioritise good governance, regulatory compliance, and long-term sustainability.

He recalled that the NCF had reviewed and adopted its constitution in 2021 to align with global best practices.

The revised constitution, he said, was submitted to the International Cricket Council, the National Sports Commission, and the Nigerian Olympic Committee.

“Let the record reflect that the constitution was properly ratified and recognised,” he said.

He assured that the 2025 elections were conducted transparently, under the supervision of an independent electoral committee.

While acknowledging minor concerns, he said all issues would be addressed within the framework of the constitution.

“Disagreements are part of democracy. What matters is how we resolve them constructively,” he said.

Mr Akpata reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, unity, and accountability.

“The future of cricket in Nigeria looks promising if we stay focused, work together, and remain accountable,” he said.

(NAN)