Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-11 02:58:55
Over the weekend, the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) and CSED Initiative came together to hold a three-day introduction to cricket training for 80 Cameroonian refugees at the Adagom 1 playground in Ogoja Council, Cross River State. This initiative was part of the events organized to celebrate the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP). Ten volunteer trainee cricket coaches were also introduced to the game for the first time under the supervision of Bibiana Ngwenifun, the Leader of Adagom 1 Camp, who made sure that ladies were equally represented at the training event.
The new cricket players and trainee coaches were taught the basics of cricket by the NCF Development Officer, Blessing Etim, and Patrick Edididong. To support their growth in the sport, cricket starter packs for training and match purposes, donated by Lord’s Taverners and the NCF, were distributed to the sports committee leaders of Adagom 1 and Adagom 3 camps. Additionally, a separate program for the Ukende camp is planned to be held within the next six weeks.
Dr. Macfarlane Ejah, the chairman of Cross River State Cricket Association, expressed his excitement about the success of the event and vowed to build on it to develop grassroots cricket in Ogoja and the northern axis of the state. He highlighted the NCF’s experience in using cricket to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Uhogua camp in Edo State and stated that similar support would be provided to the new cricketers. This support would include psycho-social assistance, training in soft skills such as computing and coding, and the promotion of tolerance and respect among individuals. Dr. Ejah emphasized the importance of living in peace and harmony with the other residents of the Ogoja community.
Furthermore, CSED Initiative trustees are looking into the possibility of introducing other sports like netball, table tennis, pickleball, and taekwondo to residents of the three Cameroonian camps. This initiative aims to foster not only physical well-being but also a sense of community and camaraderie among the refugees.
The collaboration between the NCF and CSED Initiative is a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together, promoting peace, and empowering individuals to overcome challenges. Through initiatives like the introduction to cricket training for Cameroonian refugees, positive change can be fostered within communities, and opportunities for growth and development can be created for individuals facing adversities. Such events serve as a reminder of the potential of sports to transcend boundaries and make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.
