The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has officially opened the recruitment process for a new head coach and high-performance manager for the men’s senior national team, the Yellow Greens, following the departure of former Kenyan international Steve Tikolo.
Tikolo’s tenure, which lasted three years and three months, came to an end last week, closing a notable chapter in Nigeria’s cricket development journey. The former five-time World Cup player and World Cup semi-finalist was given a brief send-off ceremony in Lagos by the NCF in recognition of his contributions to the growth and stability of the national team.
Progress Under Tikolo
During his time in charge, the Yellow Greens made measurable strides both regionally and internationally. Nigeria won two West Africa Tournament titles in 2023 and 2025, while also improving their ICC men’s ranking from 42nd to 37th clear indicators of steady progress under his leadership.
With Tikolo’s exit now confirmed, the federation has shifted focus to identifying a successor capable of consolidating those gains and guiding the next phase of the national team’s development.
NCF Outlines Requirements
In an official advertisement published on the federation’s Facebook page, the NCF detailed the criteria for prospective candidates seeking to fill the dual role of head coach and high-performance manager.
Applicants are required to have:
- A minimum Level 3 coaching qualification
- Between eight and 10 years of coaching experience
The federation also listed additional competencies considered crucial for the role, including:
- Exposure to high-performance or international cricket environments
- Proven success in elite player development
- Experience working within structured performance pathway systems
- Strong knowledge of modern cricket methodologies, performance analytics, sports science, and physical conditioning
Experience working with associate or emerging cricket nations, as well as ODI-status countries, was highlighted as an added advantage.
The deadline for applications has been set for February 16.
Call for Continuity
Former international and men’s U-19 team manager Barnaby Ephraim has also weighed in on the appointment, stressing the importance of continuity in philosophy and player development.
“By the time the NCF appoints another coach, I believe it should be in the mould of Tikolo someone who takes a genuine interest in the players and works to improve their performance,” Ephraim said.
“I am not on the board, so I cannot speak for their thinking, but we have certified and competent local coaches. Ultimately, the focus should always be on what best serves our development.”
A Crucial Appointment Ahead
The selection of a new head coach and high-performance manager is expected to be pivotal as Nigeria continues its push for sustained competitiveness at both continental and global levels.
With the February 16 deadline approaching, attention now turns to who will be entrusted with leading the Yellow Greens into the next phase of their cricketing journey.
