The NCF is Nigeria's representative at the International Cricket Council (ICC) and has been an associate member of that body since 2002.

Nigeria used to be part of the West Africa Cricket Council, which was an ICC member in its own right.

In the 19th century, British colonial administrators first introduced and popularised the game of cricket in Nigeria.

In 1951, a joint board of control was inaugurated in Lagos with each association retaining its identity.

In 1957, both expatriate and indigenous bodies merged to form the Nigeria Cricket Association (NCA).