Uyiosa Apata, president of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, on Sunday, described Stephen Tikolo’s tenure as senior men’s cricket coach as a defining period for Nigerian cricket.

Mr Apata explained that Mr Tikolo, former Kenyan captain, brought structure, discipline, and a winning culture to Nigerian cricket. He spoke at Mr Tikolo’s send-off dinner at The Cricket Lab, TBS Cricket Oval, Onikan, Lagos.

His tenure focused on discipline, professionalism, and grassroots development, positively impacting the growth of cricket in Nigeria.

The dinner gathered NCF officials, players, stakeholders, and well-wishers to honour Tikolo’s service and wish him future success.

He noted that Mr Tikolo improved players’ technical and tactical skills, thereby enhancing their international performances.

Mr Apata praised Mr Tikolo’s grassroots and coach development work, highlighting his passion for growing the game beyond national teams.

He noted Mr Tikolo collaborated with local coaches and young players, ensuring knowledge was transferred and sustained.

Team captain, Sulaimon Runsewe, said, “Coach has impacted every team member. He drives us to training from his house and supports us in every way. You haven’t just built cricketers; you’ve built an army. The journey continues, and we will make you proud.”

At the dinner, Mr Tikolo described his over three-year tenure as fulfilling and emotional, saying Nigeria is on track to become a leading African cricket nation.

Mr Tikolo chose Nigeria over Qatar and Hong Kong to give back to Africa.

“My heart was in Africa. Nigeria offered me the opportunity to contribute, and I gladly accepted,” he said.

He acknowledged disappointments, including Zimbabwe’s ICC tournament exit, and viewed them as learning experiences. 

He thanked the NCF board, secretariat, technical crew, and players for their support and commitment.

He urged players to seize opportunities and remain committed to hard work.

(NAN)