Nigeria Cricket Federation Unveils Zimbabwe’s Mangongo As Head Coach, High Performance Manager

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has officially unveiled Zimbabwean cricket tactician Stephen Mangongo as the new head coach and higher performance manager of the national team, signalling a fresh chapter in the country’s quest for international cricket success.

The unveiling ceremony, held at the Cricket Lab, TBS Cricket Oval in Lagos, attracted board members, stakeholders, former internationals, players, media representatives and cricket enthusiasts, underscoring the significance of the appointment to the future of Nigerian cricket.

Speaking at the event, NCF President Uyi Akpata described Mangongo’s appointment as a strategic move aligned with the Federation’s long-term vision for high-performance cricket and sustainable development.

Akpata noted that initiatives such as the Nigeria Super League and the Federation’s expanding grassroots programmes remain central to efforts aimed at strengthening the sport nationwide.

He highlighted the Federation’s steady progress over the years, stating that Nigeria has continued to rise in international cricket rankings while earning recognition globally for its development-driven approach.

According to Akpata, the recruitment process attracted 44 applicants from across the cricket world, with the Federation’s Technical Committee unanimously recommending Mangongo as the most suitable candidate to lead Nigerian cricket into a new era.

The NCF President also reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to sustained investment in grassroots cricket, coaching education, player pathways, facilities and high-performance systems designed to position Nigeria among the sport’s emerging global competitors.

Mangongo arrives with extensive international experience, having previously coached Zimbabwe Under-19, Zimbabwe A and the Zimbabwe senior national team.

One of the most memorable moments of his coaching career came in 2014 when he guided Zimbabwe to a historic victory over Australia in a tri-series tournament.

He has also featured prominently in several ICC global competitions, serving as assistant coach at senior international tournaments and contributing to the development of notable Zimbabwean cricketers, including Hamilton Masakadza and Tatenda Taibu.

Addressing guests during the ceremony, Mangongo expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Cricket Federation for the confidence placed in him, describing the role as both an honour and a major responsibility.

The veteran coach commended Nigeria’s cricket framework, particularly the Federation’s investment in grassroots development, player progression and competitive structures.

Reflecting on his previous involvement with Nigeria’s women’s team, Mangongo said the discipline, passion and commitment demonstrated by Nigerian players convinced him that the country possesses immense cricketing potential.

“The willingness of players to train, improve and compete at a high level is one of the strongest indicators of future success,” he said.

Mangongo maintained that Nigeria is building one of Africa’s strongest cricket development systems and has the capacity to become a major force on the continent.

He identified qualification for future ICC World Cups as one of the primary objectives of his tenure, while stressing the importance of professionalism, consistent player development and hard work.

The new Head Coach further praised the Federation for creating opportunities through the Nigeria Super League and other developmental initiatives, noting that many young cricketers around the world do not enjoy access to the facilities and structures currently available in Nigeria.

The unveiling also featured the official signing of appointment documents and interactions between Mangongo, stakeholders and members of the media.

With the Nigeria Super League entering its decisive elimination stage and several developmental projects underway, the Federation expressed confidence that Mangongo’s leadership will strengthen the nation’s high-performance system and accelerate the continued growth of cricket in Nigeria.