By Joel Ajayi

In a move aimed at promoting the game of rugby in Nigeria, the British High Commission has donated rugby kits to the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF). The donation, which includes over 19 cartons of shirts and balls, was presented on Thursday at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Speaking during the presentation, the UK Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever, emphasized the potential of Nigerian rugby on the international stage.

“Over 120 countries globally participate in rugby. Why shouldn’t Nigeria be one of the countries climbing up the league tables both in Africa and beyond? I believe Nigeria can achieve that,” she said.

Lever praised the country’s rapid progress in the sport, noting that Nigeria had moved from being ranked 24th in Africa to 8th in less than three years.

“That’s fantastic progress—well done and congratulations! I’m particularly impressed with the efforts to bring more women into the sport. Emerging rugby nations like Nigeria are helping grow the sport, especially among young girls and women,” she added.

She also highlighted rugby’s positive impact on society: “Rugby is famous for its team spirit, shared goals, and strong values like integrity, honesty, and respect. It’s a physically tough game that teaches mental resilience and promotes social inclusion.”

Representing the National Sports Commission Chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Maigidasama, Assistant Director in the Ministry of Sports, expressed appreciation to the British High Commission for the generous donation.

“We have over 40 sporting federations in Nigeria, so this support to rugby is a huge plus. We urge the UK Commission to extend similar gestures to other federations. I assure you that these kits and balls will be put to good use for the development of sports,” he said.

In his welcome remarks, the General Manager of the NRFF, Azeez Ladipo, acknowledged the role of SOS Kit Aid, a UK-based organization renowned for supporting sports teams globally.

“This journey started in March 2024, when we applied to SOS Kit Aid. Today, through the support of the British High Commission, those kits have arrived in Nigeria via diplomatic means, with no cost to the NRFF. That’s something we’re truly grateful for.”

Ladipo also highlighted the progress of Nigerian rugby under the leadership of Dr. Ademola Are, which includes: Climbing from 24th to 8th in Africa’s rugby rankings.

Launching the Rugby Rising Play Programme, a girls-only initiative for teenage girls aged 10 to 18 across 15 states. Hiring Steve Lewis, a two-time USA Coach of the Year, as Nigeria’s national rugby coach.

Winning the President’s Cup against Ghana.Reviving the women’s rugby programme;Re-admittance into the National Institute of Sports.

He concluded by reaffirming the federation’s commitment to growing rugby across the nation and thanked all partners involved.
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