By Vivian Ahanmisi
The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) says more than 5,000 girls have participated in its ‘Rugby Rising’ programme.
The federation’s media coordinator, Tolu Oguntimehin, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Lagos.
He said the initiative delivered structured, intensive training sessions nationwide, generating strong interest and significantly increasing female participation in rugby.
According to him, the programme was supervised by NRFF board member, Hussain Wuraola, and implemented by 30 certified coaches across the country.
He said coaches took rugby to schools, community centres and academies, ensuring sessions followed safety and development guidelines set by World Rugby.
“The Rugby Rising initiative has introduced thousands of girls to the basics of the game and improved acceptance among parents, schools and communities,” he said.
Wuraola commended the coaches for their dedication, noting their efforts helped break cultural and social barriers limiting female participation.
She added that promising talents were identified for nurturing towards future national team engagements.
“Our coaches exceeded expectations, reaching underserved areas and creating opportunities for girls previously unexposed to rugby.
“The response has been overwhelming, showing that the future of women’s rugby in Nigeria is very bright,” she said.
Wuraola expressed confidence the expanding grassroots base would strengthen the talent pipeline and improve competitiveness in regional and international competitions.
She said the federation would sustain momentum through follow-up camps, inter-school competitions and continuous talent monitoring.
The four-month programme, which began in November, concluded in February with demonstration matches and evaluation sessions to assess participants’ progress.
The NRFF described the initiative as central to its long-term strategy to expand the game, promote gender inclusion and build a strong rugby foundation nationwide. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
