The Nigeria Cricket Federation, NCF, has unveiled Stephen Mangongo as the new Head Coach and High Performance Manager of the national cricket team at a landmark event held at the Cricket Lab, TBS Cricket Oval, Lagos.
The unveiling ceremony drew board members, stakeholders, former internationals, players, members of the media, and cricket enthusiasts, underscoring the significance of the appointment in the Federation’s ongoing efforts to take Nigerian cricket to greater heights.
Speaking at the event, President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Uyi Akpata, described Mangongo’s appointment as a major step in the Federation’s long-term high performance vision. He noted that the Nigeria Super League, alongside the broader grassroots development structure, remains central to the future of cricket in the country.
Akpata highlighted the Federation’s steady progress in recent years, noting that Nigeria has continued to rise in the international rankings while earning global recognition for its developmental initiatives.
According to him, the recruitment process attracted 44 applicants from across the cricket world, with the Federation’s Technical Committee unanimously recommending Stephen Mangongo as the ideal candidate to lead Nigeria into a new era.
The NCF President also emphasized the Federation’s sustained investment in grassroots cricket, coaching development, player pathways, facilities, and high performance programmes over the past several years. He reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to building a sustainable cricket structure capable of competing on the global stage.
Mangongo brings a wealth of international experience to the role, having previously coached Zimbabwe Under-19, Zimbabwe A, and the Zimbabwe senior national team. One of the defining moments of his coaching career came in 2014 when he guided Zimbabwe to a historic victory over Australia in a tri-series competition.
He has also participated in multiple ICC global events, served as assistant coach at several ICC senior tournaments, and played a key role in the development of prominent Zimbabwean cricketers, including Hamilton Masakadza and Tatenda Taibu.
In his remarks, Mangongo expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Cricket Federation for the confidence reposed in him, describing the appointment as both an honour and a responsibility.
The Zimbabwean coach commended Nigeria’s cricket structure, particularly the Federation’s investment in grassroots development, player pathways, and the dedication shown by players.
Reflecting on his previous experience working with Nigeria’s women’s team, Mangongo said the discipline, passion, and commitment displayed by Nigerian players convinced him that the country possesses enormous cricketing potential. He noted that the players’ willingness to train, improve, and compete at a high level is one of the strongest indicators of future success.
Mangongo further stated that Nigeria is already building one of the strongest cricket development systems in Africa and expressed confidence that the country can emerge as a major force on the continent.
He identified qualification for future ICC World Cups as one of the key targets during his tenure, while stressing the importance of consistent player development, professionalism, and hard work.
The new Head Coach also praised the Nigeria Cricket Federation for creating opportunities through the Nigeria Super League and other developmental programmes, noting that many young cricketers around the world do not enjoy the level of access to facilities and structures currently available in Nigeria.
The unveiling ceremony also featured the official signing of appointment documents, as well as interactions between the new coach, stakeholders, and members of the media.
The Federation expressed confidence that Mangongo’s appointment will strengthen Nigeria’s high performance system and further accelerate the growth of cricket across the country.
With the Nigeria Super League entering its decisive elimination phase and several developmental projects already underway, the Nigeria Cricket Federation believes the future of Nigerian cricket remains bright under the new leadership structure.
