Sports
NRFF Launches Nationwide Initiative to Empower 3,000 Girls Through Rugby Rising Play

The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation is setting the stage for a revolution in girls’ sports by targeting 5,000 young players across the country. The inaugural phase of the Rugby Rising Play (TI Rugby) program kicked off in schools nationwide, marking an exhilarating start to week one.
The first week’s training sessions dazzled participants with dynamic drills including Catch and Release, Try Scoring Race, Raggy Tag, and BulletBall—engaging activities that sparked massive enthusiasm across the nation. Schools responded in full force, with impressive numbers reported from:
Methodist Girls High School, Abia State – 101 girlsState Primary School Eneka, Port Harcourt, Rivers State – 26 girlsAfugiwi Memorial Girl School, Abia State – 82 girlsComprehensive High School, Zaria, Kaduna State – 30 girlsThe Tend Ril Montessori School, Port Harcourt, Rivers State – 37 girlsOgida Model School, Benin, Edo State – 47 girlsGovernment Girls College, Kano State – 32 girlsAKCC Girls, Kano State – 35 girlsAsero Girls College, Abeokuta, Ogun State – 40 girlsMimshack Academy, Nbawsi Isialangwa North, Abia State – 25 girlsMabuga Primary School, Bauchi State – 35 girlsGovernment Girls College Makurdi, Benue State – 28 girlsRariya Primary School, Bauchi State – 15 girlsUniversity of Ilorin Secondary School, Ilorin, Kwara State – 45 girls.
Project supervisor Wuraola Hussein expressed her delight at the overwhelming response:”I am thrilled with the enthusiasm we’ve seen so far. The reports coming in from across the country are proof of our coaches’ dedication and the kids’ eagerness to learn. Their passion is truly contagious.”
Meanwhile, Federation President Dr. Ademola Are lauded World Rugby for recognizing Nigeria’s potential despite stiff competition from other African nations. “This endorsement means the world is noticing the efforts we’re making to grow the game. We won’t stop here—we will continue to create an enabling environment for our coaches, referees, and more youth to embrace rugby.”
With such a vibrant start, the NRFF is well on its way to transforming the landscape of girls’ rugby in Nigeria, promising both sporting excellence and lifelong opportunities for thousands of young women.
Basketball
Nigeria @ 65: Igoche Mark Pays Homage to Nigerian Athletes for Contributions

Joel Ajayi
As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary on Wednesday October 1, Basketball Promoter and Initiator of Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Mr. Igoche Mark, has commended the country’s athletes for their outstanding contributions.
In a heartfelt message, Mr. Mark praised active and retired athletes for consistently putting Nigeria on the global map through their dedication, hard work, and achievements. “Your dedication, hard work, and achievements have not only brought us pride but have also inspired a generation of Nigerians,” he stated.
The Sports Administrator urged the National Sports Commission to establish a platform to celebrate these athletes and recognize their invaluable contributions to Nigerian sports. He emphasized the need to honour their legacy and provide a framework for their continued involvement in sports after retirement.
To support athletes in transition, Mr. Mark recommended that “retirement plans be implemented to ensure a seamless transition into life after sports. This would enable athletes to plan for their future and maximize their post-athletic careers.”
Furthermore, he proposed a welfare package for retired athletes, including access to healthcare, education, and economic empowerment programs. “By doing so, we can show our appreciation for their service and ensure that they are taken care of,” Mr. Mark added.
As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary on October 1, with the theme “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” Mr. Mark’s sentiments echo the sentiments of many Nigerians who believe in the importance of recognizing and supporting the country’s athletes.
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