NSC Congratulates Uyi Akpata’s Overwhelming Re-election for A Second Term as President of Cricket Federation
Oru Leonard
The National Sports Commission Leadership congratulates Uyi Akpata on his re-election for a second term in office as President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF).
The elections took place on Saturday at the Media Centre, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission commended Akpata’s leadership during his first term and expressed confidence in his ability to further advance the sport of Cricket in Nigeria.
Dikko pledged the Commission’s support to the NCF and other Federations, emphasising the importance of collaboration in achieving greater success for Nigerian cricket.
He also extended his congratulations to the newly elected board members, urging them to work together to build on the progress already made.
Chairman’s statement highlighted the NCF’s recent achievements and expressed optimism for the sport of Cricket’s future in Nigeria.
“This win does not only reflects the growth of the sport but also signifies the country’s strength and competitiveness in the international cricket arena.” He added.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Honourable
Bukola Olopade also congratulates the newly elected President and other board members on their success.
He said,”we are much happier to join in the celebration which signals a new dawn for the sport of cricket in Nigeria.”
DG Bukola highlighted the significance of the election and its impact on the development of Cricket in the country. He commended the participants for their hard work, dedication, and determination that paved the way for such a significant victory.
He stated that the president, together with his board members’ team support, has a tough task ahead of them. However, he emphasised that “with the support and guidance of National Sports Commission and the Federal Government, we are confident that they will lead us towards greater heights and success.
“I must say that their vision and plans for the future of cricket in the country are quite promising, and it is undoubtedly an exciting time for all cricket enthusiasts.”
The leadership of NSC enthused that as a nation, we look forward to witnessing the growth of cricket and are confident that under the leadership of the new board, we will achieve new milestones and make our country proud on the global stage.
In the elections, Uyi Akpata ran unopposed and was confirmed at the Federation’s Annual General meeting and board elections. Thirty-seven (37) delegates voted in the elections which also saw 12 other board members elected to serve alongside Akpata for the next four years. Wale Obalola was elected Vice President. Returning board member Tayo Atoloye will continue to represent the South-West, while Femi John, team manager of the Junior Female Yellow Greens, was elected as the South-South representative.
Other zonal representatives include Chika Okoro (South-East), Ladan Usman (North-West), Dare Aimola (North-Central), and Zainab Adamu (North-East).
Elections were also conducted for the technical and athletes’ representatives with Endurance Ofem retaining his position as Athletes’ Representative for a third term, and Olumide Akintokun being elected as the new Technical Representative.
Ofem won by a significant margin, defeating Chimezie Onwuzurike 30 votes to 6. He expressed gratitude for the renewed trust and praised NCF President Uyi Akpata’s leadership, highlighting the growth of Nigerian cricket under his tenure, including participation in two World Cups.
He emphasised his past achievements, such as securing player contracts and expanding international opportunities, and outlined future goals, including a nationwide hub system for coaching development.
Akintokun secured a decisive victory with 37 votes. He expressed excitement and stressed the need for innovative change in cricket administration moving beyond traditional methods.
He intends to leverage his corporate experience and creativity to improve the sport.
Both representatives are expected to play key roles in shaping Nigerian Cricket’s future, addressing players’ welfare, coaching structures, grassroots development, and international exposure. With the U-19 teams already achieving International recognition, the new board’s focus will be on maintaining this momentum and developing pathways for future cricketers.
(NSC Media, 21st September, 2025)
