Sports

Rugby World Federation Will Soon lift ban on Nigeria-Dr. Ademola Are

Published

3 years ago

April 7, 2022

…solicits Stakeholder’s support

Joel Ajayi

Nigeria will soon heave a sigh of relief as efforts are on to bring the country back to the comity of Rugby playing Nations.

President, Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, Dr. Ademola Are stated this in Abuja saying that the ban has harmed the development and growth of the game in the country.

“Until this ban is lifted, our source of income is actually limited. We need fund from international body, we need fund from Individuals and corporate bodies, and most especially, we need fund from ministry, there is really nothing we can do without the Ministry”

Ademola Are is optimistic that having send the constitution, the reports, pictures, minutes of the meeting to the international body, it is expected that Rugby Africa will send it to the World Rugby for a deliberation and approval during their congress in May.

“From the fellas we are getting from federation Presidents from Africa, they are very eager that Nigeria will come back. They believed we have the population, we have the economy and we have a very large pool of players to tap from, they are eager to bring us back to the fold.

On the decisions reached at the just concluded congress in Benin, Edo State last month, on the co-options of 3 members into the board, Are said these members are those that have value to Rugby in Nigeria and Africa especially in the areas of finance.

The President said the new board is intended to have programs at all the states in all geographical zones simultaneously, taking the game to tertiary institutions as well as rejuvenating the league whereby Northern and Southern teams will slug it out and a champion will emerge at the end of the competition so as to discover more elite players within the country.

“In all these, we needed finance, we have been in touch with Chairman of Padmozi, we have also met with Sports Minister, Chief Sunday Dare, the Permanent Secretary has also been good to us and other spirited individuals”. Are stated.

Dr Are however solicited the unflinching supports of the Rugby Club owners in various states because according to him, they are the serious stakeholders

Share on Facebook

Sports

President Tinubu Reaffirms Strong Support for Team Nigeria at 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver

Published

3 hours ago

October 31, 2024

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged comprehensive support for Nigeria’s team as they prepare to compete in the Invictus Games, set to take place in Vancouver, Canada, in 2025. Representing the President, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, Senior Special Assistant on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, delivered this message of assurance during a sports training week organized by the Africa Unconquered Foundation. Hon. Isa emphasized that President Tinubu’s administration remains deeply committed to inclusivity and to supporting servicemen and women who inspire the nation with their bravery and resilience.

Hon. Isa highlighted a recent moment of significance when Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, visited Nigeria, underscoring the country’s support for the Invictus Games. Prince Harry’s initiative to establish the Invictus Games offers a space where wounded and injured military personnel can experience healing and achievement through sports. “Their visit shone a light on Nigeria’s dedication to the Invictus Games, reflecting the spirit of our servicemen and women,” he remarked. “President Tinubu’s administration is firmly committed to supporting our athletes, ensuring they receive the resources they need, and celebrating their journey to success.”

Derrick Cobbinah, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of the Africa Unconquered Foundation, explained the importance of the Invictus Games training week. The Foundation’s mission is to support the sports recovery journey of wounded, injured, and serving military personnel across Africa, including Nigeria. “This week, we are training 22 injured soldiers, preparing them for the Invictus Games next year in Vancouver, Canada. It’s an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its strength on the world stage, competing alongside other nations.”

Cobbinah emphasized that the Invictus Games concept has a profound impact on participants, especially those who have fought in challenging conditions, such as combating Boko Haram. For many soldiers who have faced trauma and physical injuries, the Games offer renewed hope and empowerment.

“For some, these events have restored a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and unity—something invaluable as they rebuild from their injuries,” he shared.

Alvin Atsegwasi CFO and Co – Founder
“This experience reinforces healing, unity, and a strong belief in the support systems around them.”

Looking ahead, Atsegwasi expressed excitement for the future, stating, “Our mission goes beyond the Games; we’re here for continuous development, healing, and growth. Together, we heal, and together, we rise.”

Team Nigeria will compete in five sports at the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver: archery, wheelchair basketball, swimming, wheelchair rugby, and para volleyball. As they prepare to represent the nation on an international stage, Nigeria is ready to rally behind them, honoring their resilience and the spirit of triumph that defines them.

Share on Facebook