The President of the Federation Prof. Yahaya Adam Ukwenya has concluded a 2 days inspection visit to Abuja. Arriving on Wednesday 9th September, the President inspected the office environment to ensure that it is operational in total adherence to all Covid-19 safety protocols and also held a meeting with the administrative staff on the possibilities of returning back to full Cricket activities in time for the ICC/NCF Accelerated growth program scheduled to begin later this year.

 

His next stop was the 2nd Turf Wicket Pitch under construction. Interacting with the site manager and the consultant in charge of the project, the President took time to inspect the Drainage and Irrigation systems already installed, the borehole water supply, storage facility and the installed pressure machines. Finally on inspection, he also monitored the ongoing top soil filling in preparation for grassing and the container storage facility procured by the Federation.

Speaking after the inspection, the President expressed satisfaction at the quality and level of work done thus far on the pitch. “I am quite satisfied with the quality of work done so far, the quality of the materials and the pace at with the project is going. As a Federation, we are committed to completing this project and the Tafawa Balewa Square upgrade because we understand the importance of having proper facilities in the overall development of the sport in Nigeria, he said”.

 

The visit to Abuja was concluded with a meeting with the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development Mr. Gabriel Aduda. During interactions, the President brought the Secretary up to speed with events happening in Cricket and further plans by the Federation in regards to Facility development across the country, ICC/NCF Accelerated growth program which focusses on grassroots development.

 

Cricket activities have gradually resumed in the country since the lockdown on non-contact sports was lifted and states have resumed practice with hope that the National Sports Festival will be held at some point before the end of the year.

 

MUSA EHIZOJE BODIE

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER (NCF)