The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has officially unveiled Stephen Mangongo as the new Head Coach and High Performance Manager of the national cricket team in a landmark event held at the Cricket Lab, TBS Cricket Oval, Lagos.
The unveiling ceremony brought together board members, stakeholders, former internationals, players, members of the media, and cricket enthusiasts, marking a significant moment in the Federation’s continued drive to elevate Nigerian cricket to greater heights.
Speaking during the event, President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Uyi Akpata, described the appointment as a major step in the Federation’s long-term high performance vision, noting that the Nigeria Super League and the broader grassroots development structure are central to the future of cricket in the country.
Akpata highlighted the Federation’s progress over the years, revealing that Nigeria has steadily climbed the international rankings while gaining global recognition for its developmental initiatives.
According to him, the appointment process attracted interest from 44 applicants across the cricket world, with the Federation’s Technical Committee unanimously recommending Stephen Mangongo as the ideal candidate to lead Nigeria into a new era.
The NCF President also emphasized the Federation’s investment in grassroots cricket, coaching development, player pathways, facilities, and high performance initiatives over the past several years, adding that the Federation remains committed to building a sustainable cricket structure capable of competing globally.
Mangongo arrives with a wealth of international experience, having coached Zimbabwe Under-19, Zimbabwe A, and the Zimbabwe senior national team. One of the defining moments of his coaching career came in 2014 when he guided Zimbabwe to a historic victory over Australia in a tri-series competition.
He has also participated in multiple ICC global events, served as assistant coach in several ICC senior tournaments, and played a significant role in the development of prominent Zimbabwean cricketers including Hamilton Masakadza and Tatenda Taibu.
During his address, Mangongo expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Cricket Federation for the confidence reposed in him and described his appointment as both an honour and a responsibility.
The Zimbabwean coach praised Nigeria’s cricket structure, particularly the Federation’s grassroots investment, player development system, and the commitment shown by players.
Recounting his previous experience working with Nigeria’s women’s team, Mangongo noted that the discipline, passion, and dedication displayed by Nigerian players convinced him that the country possesses enormous cricketing potential.
According to him, the willingness of players to train, improve, and compete at a high level is one of the strongest indicators of future success.
Mangongo further stated that Nigeria is already building one of the strongest cricket development systems in Africa and believes the country has the potential to emerge as a major cricket force on the continent.
He identified qualification for future ICC World Cups as one of the key targets during his tenure while emphasizing the importance of consistent player development, professionalism, and hard work.
The new Head Coach also commended the Nigeria Cricket Federation for creating opportunities through the Nigeria Super League and various developmental programs, noting that many young cricketers across the world do not have access to the facilities and structures currently available in Nigeria.
The unveiling ceremony also featured the official signing of appointment documents and interactions between the new coach, stakeholders, and members of the media.
The Federation expressed confidence that Mangongo’s appointment will strengthen Nigeria’s high performance system and further accelerate the growth of cricket across the country.
With the Nigeria Super League entering its decisive elimination phase and several developmental projects already ongoing, the Federation believes the future of Nigerian cricket remains bright under the new leadership structure