The President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, Dr. Ademola Are, Secretary Oludare Davies and four home-based players have left Nigeria for Mauritius, the host of the Africa Cup Rugby Sevens tournament.
The players—Christopher Daniel John, Etim Gabriel, Sam Esukuloh Prince, and Akpabio Samuel—along with Secretary Oludare Davies, will join the foreign-based players who have been training in England for the past few weeks.
The team has been undergoing rigorous preparation, led by head coach Steve Lewis.
Lewis emphasized the importance of these sessions, stating, “Our goal is to be fully prepared and address any weaknesses before our Nigeria-based players arrive. We want to be at our best for the tournament.”
The squad for the Africa Cup Sevens has seen several significant changes, notably the absence of co-captains Declan Nwachukwu (center) and Olukolade Awobowale (winger) due to injuries. Former captain Onoru Jatto is also absent, prompting strategic adjustments by the coaching staff.
Despite these challenges, the team remains optimistic and determined. The Black Stallions are in Pool A, competing against strong opponents like Kenya, Madagascar, and host Mauritius. The players are confident in their preparation and abilities.
Pool B features Uganda, Burkina Faso, Tunisia, and Côte d’Ivoire, while Pool C includes Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, and Algeria. The competition promises to be fierce, with each team bringing unique strengths to the tournament.
Nigeria Rugby Federation Signs Multi-Year Partnership with Flovale Consulting
Ahead of the Africa Rugby Sevens tournament kickoff in Mauritius, the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has taken a significant step in repositioning rugby in the country by signing a three-year partnership deal with Flovale Consulting.
The partnership will enable Flovale Consulting to create a dedicated channel and focus efforts on making rugby one of the most popular sports in Nigeria, while also promoting the development of both body and mind. This collaboration aims to lay a strong foundation for the future growth of Nigerian rugby.
“We are passionate about developing rugby as a government agency responsible for the promotion and development of the game in Nigeria,” said NRFF President Dr. Ademola Are. “This partnership will advance rugby in Nigeria through a unified plan that benefits all levels of the game, from community and professional rugby clubs to unions, regions, commercial partners, and fans. Everyone has a role to play.”
The partnership focuses on growing rugby participation, increasing fan engagement, and supporting players at all stages of their careers. It reflects the NRFF’s ambitions for development and growth, addressing societal issues and values.
The collaboration will create development programs and age-appropriate training structures, ensuring junior players can develop their skills and passion for rugby in a fun and safe environment. Volunteers and players will be actively supported to fully enjoy their time in the sport.
“We aim to help players reach their full potential and remain involved in rugby into adulthood, whether playing for unions or clubs. Delivering this strategy with our clubs, schools, partner organizations, and commercial partners will ensure that rugby in Nigeria continues to thrive,” said Opeoluwa Runsewe, CEO of Flovale.
Runsewe added, “As a corporate partner, Flovale Consulting is committed to driving growth and success both locally and globally. With careful planning and innovative strategies, this partnership is set to elevate rugby, foster financial stability, and achieve significant milestones.”
“We are excited about this partnership with Flovale. Collaborations such as this will foster the development of rugby in Nigeria,” concluded Dr. Ademola Are, NRFF President.
