The President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), Uyi Akpata, believes the progress recorded by Team Nigeria at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow offers valuable lessons for the future development of sports in the country.
Beyond the medals won and the impressive performances delivered by Nigerian athletes, Mr Akpata said the emergence of new talent through structured grassroots programmes represents one of the biggest takeaways from Nigeria’s participation in the Games.
Speaking with PREMIUM TIMES on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Mr Akpata praised the atmosphere within Team Nigeria, describing the unity and support system around the athletes as a positive sign for the country’s sporting future.
“We are doing very well, but more importantly, you can see new talents coming through. The whole atmosphere, we are one big family. Everyone is doing well, and everyone has been supported,” Mr Akpata said.
“But more importantly, we’re beginning to see some people come out from specific, dedicated grassroots and development programmes. To me, that’s a winner anytime.”
