\n\nNigeria’s cricket community is celebrating another international achievement after the country was named the winner of the ICC Rexona Criiio Cricket Festival of the Year Award, a recognition presented by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for outstanding efforts in promoting grassroots cricket.
The award celebrates Nigeria’s commitment to expanding the game through the Criiio programme, an initiative designed to introduce cricket to children and young people in schools and local communities. Over the past year, the Nigeria Cricket Federation has organized numerous festivals and outreach activities, helping thousands of children experience the sport for the first time.
Officials say the recognition reflects the hard work of coaches, volunteers, teachers, and administrators who have invested time and resources into making cricket more accessible across the country. The programme has also encouraged greater participation among girls and underserved communities, aligning with the ICC’s goal of growing cricket globally.
The Nigeria Cricket Federation described the award as a major milestone, noting that it reinforces the country’s growing reputation in international cricket development. Sports enthusiasts have also praised the achievement, describing it as proof that Nigeria can excel beyond its traditional strengths in football and athletics.
The latest recognition is expected to inspire further investment in grassroots sports and encourage more young Nigerians to pursue careers in cricket. Stakeholders believe that with sustained support, Nigeria can continue to produce talented players capable of competing successfully on the global stage while strengthening the sport’s popularity nationwide.
