Visionary leader in nigerian cricket
Mr. Uyi Akpata assumed the presidency of the Nigeria Cricket Federation in late 2021 after serving as Vice President. From day one, he set a bold objective: to make Nigeria one of Africa’s top three cricket nations by 2026, aiming to leapfrog into elite international competition on both men’s and women’s fronts. Under his leadership, Nigeria’s under‑19 women made a historic mark at the ICC U‑19 T20 World Cup, and the NCF earned recognition from the ICC and other organisations. In early 2025, his transformative impact was honoured with Nigeria’s highest sports award — Sportsville Sports Personality of the Year, celebrating his strategic vision and tangible advances for cricket in Nigeria.
Infrastructure, coaching, umpiring & organisational upgrade
From Lagos to Abuja, Edo, Ogun, Akwa Ibom and beyond, Uyi Akpata spearheaded facility upgrades and high‑performance investment, including plans for a twin‑oval cricket stadium in Abeokuta. He restructured the Federation with stronger governance, professional coaching staff, umpires’ education and regional officers. Under his tenure, players and officials have benefited from high‑performance training, improved coaching certifications and even health‑insurance packages. Drawing on his corporate leadership experience, he has secured sponsorships and strategic partnerships with private firms and international bodies like the ICC and Africa Cricket Association to elevate Nigeria’s cricket brand.
Impact summary
Under his leadership, Nigeria’s cricket structure is widely praised as the best‑run sport in the country. Women’s and youth teams have climbed the rankings and now challenge Africa’s top sides. National squads benefit from high‑performance exposure and tournament invitations, while grassroots programmes through schools and zonal competitions are steadily producing young talent and widening the sport’s reach.
Championing excellence at Miva Open University
Uyi Akpata serves on the Board of Trustees of Miva Open University, leveraging decades of experience as former Country Senior Partner of PwC Nigeria to guide the institution’s mission for accessible, future‑focused education. His strategic insights help align academic offerings with industry expectations, ensuring students are empowered for the real world. Akpata also shares his knowledge directly through masterclasses – such as his lecture on accounting fundamentals for business management – illustrating how financial literacy can drive sustainability and growth.
Media & Public Recognition
Uyi Akpata’s leadership and accomplishments have been celebrated in national media and by sports journalists. News outlets have highlighted his vision and infrastructure upgrades, while sports programmes have recognized him as a transformative figure for cricket. He was honoured as Sportsville’s Sports Personality of the Year, and his work continues to inspire coverage about Nigeria’s cricket renaissance.
Board & Advisory Roles
Beyond cricket, Uyi Akpata contributes his expertise to education and entrepreneurship. He serves on the board of Miva Open University, helping to shape a strategic vision for affordable online learning in Nigeria and beyond. His advisory roles reflect a commitment to creating opportunities and fostering innovation across sport, business and academia.