The Nigeria Cricket Federation, along with players and fans of the sport, are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy in Nigeria. According to a report by The PUNCH, the trophy is set to begin a two-day tour of the country, starting on Tuesday.
Nigeria, having been part of a similar tour in 2019, has been chosen once again to be part of the procession. This time, the trophy will be paraded alongside trophies from South Africa and Uganda. This special tour is in preparation for the ODI World Cup, scheduled to take place in India from October 5 to November 19.
The ceremonial handover of the trophy is scheduled to take place in Abuja on Tuesday morning. The Nigeria Cricket Federation’s board members will be present to receive the trophy. The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, is expected to unveil the trophy at the indoor sports hall of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium. The trophy will also be showcased at various iconic landmarks in the Federal Capital Territory, allowing the public to catch a glimpse of the prestigious award.
The itinerary continues on Wednesday as the trophy makes its way to Lagos. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will be on hand to receive the trophy as it arrives in the city. The climax of the trophy tour will be at the Tafawa Balewa Cricket Oval in Onikan. Here, a cultural celebration will take place, complete with photo opportunities, public viewing of the trophy, and engaging cricket activities for young players.
Uyi Akpata, the President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, expressed gratitude for the steadfast support of sports minister Senator John Enoh. Despite his limited time in office before the request came in to host the World Cup trophy tour, the minister has shown enthusiastic support for the event. Akpata emphasized the broader goal of using this occasion to rally more support for cricket in Nigeria and to express appreciation to all stakeholders who have consistently backed the sport.
