Barewa RFC and AJ Sharks claim top honors at Atlantic Rugby 7s tournament in Lagos

Posted : 05 May 2026

Barewa RFC produced a masterclass in sevens rugby to defeat Cowrie RFC 19-0 in the men’s final of the Atlantic Rugby 7s. The high-stakes encounter took place at the Rugby School Nigeria grounds in Lagos on May 5, 2026. Barewa dominated the proceedings through disciplined defending and clinical finishing to secure the prestigious trophy.

In the women’s division, AJ Sharks emerged as champions following a hard-fought 7-0 victory against Edo Queens. The match was defined by defensive organization and tactical patience from the Sharks. Captain Adaeze Precious attributed the victory to the team's unwavering focus and mutual support throughout the rigorous competition.

The tournament featured eleven teams traveling from across Nigeria, including representatives from Kano, Rivers, Edo, and Ogun states. Nigeria Rugby Football Federation General Manager, Azeez Ladipo, noted that the event serves as a vital scouting ground for national team assignments. He confirmed that the competition is a strategic step toward preparing athletes for the Africa Rugby Sevens in Mauritius.

Technological advancements played a major role in the event's coordination through the deployment of digital ticketing systems. Sportickeroof introduced an offline accreditation method that allowed spectators and officials to access the venue without internet connectivity. These innovations are expected to increase the digital visibility of the sport and attract future corporate sponsorships.

Grassroots development remained a central theme as the Lagos State Sport Commission announced plans to introduce rugby into secondary schools. Director of Sport Nunayon Travih stated that early exposure is necessary to strengthen the state's sporting structures. This initiative aims to utilize Nigeria's natural athleticism to build a sustainable pipeline for the national rugby teams.

The successful hosting of the Atlantic Rugby 7s has provided domestic players with much-needed competitive match minutes. Match commissioner Wuraola Hussain emphasized that regular tournaments are essential for maintaining athlete fitness and identifying elite talent. Stakeholders now look forward to increased investment to address existing infrastructure challenges within the Nigerian rugby ecosystem.

Barewa RFC and AJ Sharks claim top honors at Atlantic Rugby 7s tournament in Lagos

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