The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has been named the winner of the ICC x Rexona Criiio Cricket Festival of the Year Award, honoring its Criiio Cricket Festival staged in Zamfara State.
Held under the theme “Breaking Barriers,” the event brought cricket to a part of the country where girls’ access to sport and education has often been restricted. The programme blended athletics with local culture and community involvement, aiming to increase participation and lay groundwork for the growth of women’s cricket in Northwest Nigeria.
ICC chair Jay Shah said the awards are designed to highlight the contributions of the sport’s Associate Members. “These Awards were established to celebrate the extraordinary work being delivered by our Associate Members around the world, and this year’s winners are outstanding examples of how cricket can inspire participation, create opportunity, strengthen communities and deliver performances that capture global attention,” Shah said.
NCF president Uyi Akpata called the recognition a triumph for those involved in the federation’s grassroots pathway. “This award is a proud moment for Nigeria Cricket and for everyone who has helped drive our grassroots development journey. The Criiio Festival in Zamfara demonstrated what can be achieved when communities, partners and committed volunteers unite around a shared vision,” Akpata said. “We dedicate this recognition to every young girl whose life has been influenced by cricket, and we reaffirm our determination to break down more barriers and open up even greater opportunities across Nigeria.”
The federation also credited the ICC and Rexona, along with community leaders, schools, volunteers, coaches, development officers and state associations, for helping deliver a successful festival.
