The Board of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has continued to make giant strides in the development of the sport across all strata and climes. When the board was inaugurated, Five (5) key strategic pillars for development were launched as a sustainable mechanism that will grow the game at grassroots and elite levels in both male and female categories.
The first key strategy is ‘’Promoting the game of Cricket at all levels (Male & Female) through grassroots development in the six geo-political zones.’’ This has been evident in the Accelerated Growth Program and the domestic tournaments. The second strategy is ‘’Upgrading infrastructure in key locations in line with international standards and making modern equipment available to players at all levels’’. Turf pitches that have been constructed and various facility upgrades across the country in the last 5 years is a testament of the Board’s commitment in pursuing this strategic pillar for development.
‘’Establish strategic partnership with other key stakeholders, notably, sponsors, media and international Cricket bodies’’ which is the 3rd strategy, is our focus on this piece. The Federation has enjoyed a robust relationship with partner in achieving Cricket development across the country with the most consistent and notable partnership being PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Promoting Ethics through Sports (PETS) Foundation, other individual and corporate originations to mention a few.
Women’s Cricket development in Nigeria is a key area with special interest in line with the ICC position on 50-50 inclusion in the sport. The Nigeria women’s team in recent years has gained recognition at national and continental levels with proven talents and potentials to dominate the global scene in the near future.
To further consolidate on the vision for Women’s Cricket, the Board of the NCF has approved the appointment of Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack as a Brand Ambassador for Women’s Cricket in Nigeria. Adaora’s appointment comes in recognition of her immeasurable contribution to GENDER EQUITY, advocacy for the empowerment of the girl child and integration of women into leadership positions for societal and Nation building. Her experience in the broadcasting industry, knowledge of the sports during her school days in the United Kingdom and being involved domestically will play a huge role in propagating Women’s Cricket and also increasing the popularity of the sport in the country.
According to the General Manager of the Federation Emeka Igwilo, ‘’As a Federation, we believe that Adaora is a role model for younger generation of women coming through in our society and her achievements in propagating the well-being of the girl child aligns with our vision for Women’s Cricket in Nigeria and the ICC 50-50 gender inclusion in the sport’’ he said.
Details of her assignment include but not limited to;
i. Raising awareness for Women’s Cricket in Nigeria
ii. Promoting Women’s Cricket through strategic partnership with individuals, corporate and multi-national organizations.
iii. Represent the Federation in meetings and engagements where Women’s cricket is discussed.
iv. Provide educational and career counselling guidance for Women’s Cricket in Nigeria, and more.
The last 2 development strategy of the Board of the NCF are centered on ‘’Improving the quality of our players and officials at all levels through regular local and international competition and development events’’, and ‘’Maintain appropriate Governance and Finance structures to ensure we run a sustainable business of Cricket’’.
Adaora will resume her duties on behalf of the NCF immediately.