Rugby returns to the 2024 National Sports Festival roster
In a major boost for Nigeria’s sporting community, rugby has officially been reinstated into the lineup of the 2024 National Sports Festival, themed “Gateway Games”, set to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025. The decision followed the unanimous approval of the Joint Technical Committee for the 22nd edition of the […]
In a major boost for Nigeria’s sporting community, rugby has officially been reinstated into the lineup of the 2024 National Sports Festival, themed “Gateway Games”, set to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025.
The decision followed the unanimous approval of the Joint Technical Committee for the 22nd edition of the festival, after a comprehensive evaluation.
The committee highlighted rugby’s rising popularity, increased grassroots participation, and expanding national fan base as key factors behind its reintroduction.
President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), Dr. Ademola Are, described the development as a significant milestone for the sport.
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He extended his gratitude to the Director General of the National Sports Commission and Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Chief Bukola Olopade; the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka; and the entire Joint Technical Committee for their unwavering support.
Dr. Are praised their commitment to promoting sports diversity in Nigeria, saying: “With this development, Nigerians can once again experience the thrill of top-level rugby at the festival. More importantly, national team selectors will be present at the games to scout for promising talents as we prepare for the prestigious Africa Cup Sevens, scheduled to hold in Mauritius from June 18th to 23rd, 2025.”
He further emphasized that rugby’s return is not only a win for the sport but also a golden opportunity for talent discovery and future national team development.
The re-admittance of rugby is expected to energize fans and stakeholders nationwide, reaffirming the National Sports Festival’s role as a platform for nurturing homegrown talent and fostering the growth of diverse sports.