By Joel Ajayi
Former President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) and current chairman of the FCT Cricket Association, Emeka Onyeama, has stressed the urgent need for reforms in cricket governance, calling for fairness, accountability, and people-driven leadership in the sport.
Speaking in Abuja ahead of Saturday’s NCF board elections, where he is contesting to represent the North Central zone, Onyeama unveiled a seven-point development agenda designed to reposition Nigerian cricket for growth and sustainability. He made it clear that his ambition is not about clinging to the presidency at all costs but about making meaningful contributions to decision-making in the game.
“No one makes himself king; leaders are chosen by the people,” Onyeama noted, as he criticized what he described as an atmosphere of fear and exclusion within the NCF. According to him, the current system discourages open dialogue and often prioritizes personal interests through last-minute appointments and manipulative practices.
He warned against turning sports administration into a “retirement plan” for civil servants, stressing that the future of cricket requires resilience, entrepreneurial vision, and business-minded leadership capable of building strong, sustainable institutions.
Onyeama also emphasized governance standards such as term limits, transparent elections, and strict accountability, citing the International Cricket Council as a model. “No one should be both judge and competitor in their own election,” he cautioned, insisting that electoral credibility is central to restoring trust in the federation.
Recalling past irregularities — including forged signatures and questionable endorsements — he argued that his return to the board is necessary to safeguard players and stakeholders from disenfranchisement.
Onyeama concluded by reaffirming his commitment to integrity and reform. “We will persist, we will hold people accountable, and we will reclaim governance so that elections are credible and our federations are strong enough to attract both investment and public trust,” he declared.
