The thrilling Nigeria vs Uganda T20 clash ended in a historic one-run victory for the host nation on Sunday, sealing the Sub-Regional Africa C T20 World Cup Qualifier title at the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) Oval 1 in Abuja.

The host nation held their nerve in a dramatic contest, setting a target of 148 runs before restricting Uganda to 147 for nine wickets at the end of their 20 overs to seal the championship and secure qualification for the next stage of the 2027 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier.

Nigeria, who finished the competition unbeaten with five wins from five matches, beat Zambia, Gambia, Lesotho, Mozambique and Uganda.

Nigeria and Uganda have officially booked their spots in the Africa Qualifier! The Yellow Greens finished the Sub-Regional Qualifier C unbeaten, topping the table with a perfect 10 points, while Uganda secured second place with 8 points.

President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Uyi Akpata, praised the team for their resilience and composure under pressure, describing the victory as a significant milestone for Nigerian cricket.

Akpata also commended the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, and Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for their support and commitment to sports development.

He added that the Commission’s support is helping to create an enabling environment for sports federations to pursue excellence and deliver results for the country.

Nigeria’s triumph further strengthens the country’s growing cricket profile, following recent successes across its age-grade teams, including the historic back-to-back qualification of the Under-19 women’s team for the ICC Women’s Under-19 World Cup and the promotion of the Under-19 men’s team to Division One.