Nigeria's men's cricket team has made history by emerging victorious in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C.
The team defeated Botswana in a thrilling top-of-the-table clash on Thursday to secure their spot.
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The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, was present at the event to support the team.
He commended the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) and its president, Uyi Akpata, for their efforts in advancing the sport in Nigeria.
"I'm extremely proud of the victory recorded today, and also of what the Nigerian Cricket Federation has achieved," Olopade said.
"This aligns with President Tinubu's vision of bringing the private sector on board to drive sports development."
Nigeria dominated the tournament with an unbeaten record, securing five wins out of five.
The team's success is a testament to the growing prominence of cricket in Nigeria, thanks to strategic investments and the dedication of stakeholders.
The victory also underscores the importance of diversifying Nigeria's sports focus.
"We need to de-emphasize the notion that one sport is bigger than others," Olopade said.
"Cricket is massive globally, and it is gratifying to see Nigeria making inroads in the sport."
The Nigeria U-19 women's cricket team has also made history by securing Africa's sole ticket to the ICC U-19 Women's World Cup, set to be held in Malaysia in 2025.
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