Lagos, Rivers, FCT, Ogun, and 16 Others to Participate in 2nd NRFF Rugby Rising

Posted : 23 October 2025

Twenty states will participate in the second edition of the NRFF Rugby Rising program in Abuja, aimed at improving coaching standards.

Representatives from 20 states across Nigeria will participate in the second edition of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) Rugby Rising program, scheduled to take place at the Media Centre of the Moshood Kashimawo Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

The event will feature selected coaches who have completed three key World Rugby training modules — Rugby Ready, Concussion Management, and Safeguarding Essentials. The program aims to equip participants with modern technical knowledge and coaching standards to ensure a consistent and high-quality rugby experience, particularly for girls nationwide.

Building on the success of the maiden edition, which reached 15 states, this year’s event will further expand its reach and impact.

Speaking ahead of the program, NRFF President, Ademola Are, reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to repositioning rugby in Nigeria through professional training for coaches and referees. He described the second edition of the TI Rugby Coaching Program as a crucial step toward that goal, adding that with the continued support of World Rugby, more officials will be trained to meet international standards.

Similarly, NRFF General Manager, Azeez Ladipo, highlighted the importance of structured training in driving rugby’s development across all levels, especially among young girls. He noted that the quality of instruction directly influences the sport’s growth, which is why the federation is prioritizing World Rugby–accredited programs.

Rugby Rising Supervisor, Hussain Wuraola, commended the 20 states that have confirmed participation, calling it “a step in the right direction for the growth of the game.” She stressed the importance of strong foundations in coaching, noting that properly trained coaches can instill the right philosophy and discipline in players, creating a ripple effect that enhances rugby development nationwide.

She also encouraged participants to complete their remaining modules to fast-track their certification and final approval.

Among the selected coaches for the Rugby Rising Play (T1 Rugby Training Course) are:
Felix Salami (Lagos), Nuhu Samaila (Enugu), Umar Bau (Kano), Torkwase Adugu (Benue), Shehu Garba (Bauchi), Salami Latifat (Ekiti), Kehinde Adelaja (Ogun), Sadam Abubakar (Kaduna), Ola Uchendu (Abia), Olumide Blessing (Kwara), Zaki Haske (Plateau), David Mathias (Rivers), Paul Vincent (Anambra), Olawale Kemi (Delta), Azeez Raafiu (Imo), Chinedu Leo (FCT Abuja), and Ehiorobo Osaivbie (Edo).

The program, supervised by Hussain Wuraola, will officially commence on Friday in Abuja.

Lagos, Rivers, FCT, Ogun, and 16 Others to Participate in 2nd NRFF Rugby Rising

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