Nigerian U-19 Girls Get Scholarships After World Cup Qualification

Uyi Akpata, the President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, has announced full university scholarships for the Junior Female Yellow Greens. This comes after the team qualified for the 2027 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Akpata made the announcement at a dinner held for the team on Monday at the Tafawa Balewa Cricket Oval in Lagos.

Nigeria won the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier by beating Zimbabwe by four runs in a thrilling final at the ESTIM Ground in Tanzania on Saturday.

Nigeria defended a total of 98 runs, bowling out Zimbabwe for 94 with just one ball left. This victory capped an unbeaten run for Nigeria, who won all five of their matches.

The win not only crowned Nigeria as champions of Africa but also secured their spot in the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2027, which will take place in Bangladesh and Nepal.

Akpata praised the team during the reception, saying, "The whole world is recognising us, and you girls are showing it on and off the pitch. One of our aims is to create a brand that everyone will want to work with, and you girls have enhanced that brand."

He added, "At the very least, on behalf of the Nigeria Cricket Federation board, you are all on full scholarship until you finish your university."

Akpata also mentioned that each team member not currently on a national team contract will receive a special student contract. He encouraged the girls, saying, "We must continue to do our best when it comes to schooling. Keep making us proud, and I want to assure you that preparations for the World Cup will begin earnestly."

Christabel Chukwuonye, the team captain, was present alongside key players like Shola Adekunle, Anointed Akhigbe, Omosigho Eguakun, wicketkeeper Deborah Bassey, Jessica Bieni, Beauty Oguai, and pacer Peace Usen.

Other squad members include Favour Effiong, Jennifer Godwin, Glory Idiahi, Chisom Okpe, Praise Onaghise, and Inyene Ubong.

Omosigho Eguakun stood out in the tournament, finishing as the leading run-scorer and was named Best Batter. She scored 139 runs in five innings, with an average of 34.75, a strike rate of 104.51, and a highest score of 50.

Now, Nigeria will join South Africa as Africa’s representatives for the 2027 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. This will be Nigeria’s second straight appearance at the World Cup following their debut last year in Malaysia, where they finished sixth.