Nigeria Cricket Federation Wins ICC Criiio Cricket Festival of the Year Award

Posted : 13 July 2026

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has been honoured with the ICC x Rexona Criiio Cricket Festival of the Year Award, earning global recognition for its outstanding contribution to grassroots cricket development.

The award celebrates the federation's successful Criiio Cricket Festival held in Zamfara State, an initiative that used cricket to promote inclusion, education and opportunities for young people, particularly girls, in communities with limited access to organised sport.

Organised under the theme "Breaking Barriers," the festival combined cricket, cultural activities and community engagement to encourage greater participation in the sport. The programme also sought to challenge social barriers that have traditionally limited girls' involvement in sports across parts of North-West Nigeria.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) said the award recognises the Nigeria Cricket Federation's commitment to making cricket accessible to every community, regardless of location or background. The governing body also praised the initiative for creating opportunities that empower young people through sport.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah congratulated the winners, describing them as examples of how cricket can create positive social impact around the world.

"These awards were established to celebrate the extraordinary work being delivered by our associate members around the world, and this year's winners are outstanding examples of how cricket can inspire participation, create opportunity, strengthen communities, and deliver performances that capture global attention," Shah said.

The recognition further strengthens Nigeria's growing reputation as one of the leading cricket development nations among ICC Associate Members. In recent years, the Nigeria Cricket Federation has expanded grassroots programmes aimed at increasing participation, developing young talent and promoting gender equality through the sport.

Reacting to the achievement, Nigeria Cricket Federation President Uyi Akpata described the award as a landmark moment for Nigerian cricket and everyone who has contributed to the sport's growth.

"This award is a proud moment for Nigerian cricket and for everyone who has contributed to our grassroots development journey," Akpata said.

He added that the Zamfara festival demonstrated what can be achieved when communities, schools, volunteers, coaches, development officers and partners work together with a shared vision.

Akpata dedicated the award to the young girls who have benefited from the programme and reaffirmed the federation's commitment to expanding cricket opportunities across Nigeria. He also thanked the ICC, Rexona, community leaders, state cricket associations and all stakeholders whose support helped make the initiative a success.

The award provides further encouragement for the Nigeria Cricket Federation as it continues implementing programmes designed to increase participation, strengthen grassroots structures and inspire the next generation of cricketers throughout the country.

Nigeria Cricket Federation Wins ICC Criiio Cricket Festival of the Year Award

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