NRFF, Ekiti State Join Forces to Drive Grassroots Rugby Growth

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has taken another step in its nationwide development agenda by partnering with the Ekiti State Sports Commission to deliver a groundbreaking Rugby Clinic.

The project is designed to strengthen grassroots participation and talent discovery across the state.

Held in Abuja, the clinic was spearheaded by World Rugby–certified Educator and NRFF Development Officer, Wuraola Hussain, who led an intensive blend of theoretical and practical sessions for game teachers, as well as primary and secondary school game prefects.

Participants were trained on rugby fundamentals, safety standards, game management, and inclusive coaching techniques tailored for school environments—key elements needed to build a sustainable rugby culture.

NRFF President, Ademola Are, hailed the Ekiti State Sports Commission for embracing a program of such strategic importance, emphasizing that initiatives like this form the bedrock of long-term rugby growth nationwide.

Echoing this commitment, Ekiti State’s Commissioner for Sports, Olusola Osetoba, described the clinic as a vital tool for personal and athletic development, noting that the state remains committed to empowering young people with globally relevant skills.

Educator Hussain underscored the essence of building rugby from the ground up, stressing that empowering teachers and student leaders is essential for ensuring the sport becomes accessible, safe, and development-driven for young athletes.

Acting General Manager of the Commission, Lawrence Ogundele Mayowa, reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to creating opportunities for youth advancement through sports, adding that more disciplines stand to benefit from similar initiatives.

With its successful rollout, the Ekiti Rugby Clinic marks a significant stride in the NRFF’s mission to groom future stars, promote discipline, and inspire positive youth engagement through rugby—setting the stage for broader development across Nigeria.