Author: Debe

Help NRLA Women’s team qualify for the World Cup

Support the Nigerian Green Falcons on Their World Cup Journey!

The Nigerian women’s rugby team, the Green Falcons, is determined to make history at the World Cup qualifiers. These incredible athletes embody strength, passion, and resilience, representing Nigeria with pride. But they need your help to get there.

Why Your Support Matters:

Preparing for the World Cup qualifiers is expensive. The Green Falcons need funds for training, travel, equipment, and medical support. Your contribution will directly impact their ability to compete at the highest level.

Every Donation Counts

Your generosity will help cover essential costs like:

  • Training and Coaching: Ensuring the team is well-prepared.
  • Travel Expenses: Supporting their journey to international matches.
  • Equipment and Gear: Providing the best tools to compete.
  • Medical Care: Keeping the players fit and ready to win.

Join Us in Making History:

The Green Falcons are fighting not just for victory, but for the future of women’s rugby in Nigeria. Every donation brings them closer to their World Cup dreams.

Thank You for Your Support!

Together, we can help the Green Falcons soar and show the world the power of Nigerian rugby.

NRLA: Bolu Fagborun as Head Coach for Women’s World Cup Qualifiers Against Kenya

The Nigeria Rugby League is proud to announce the appointment of Bolu Fagborun as the head coach for the women’s national team as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Kenya.

Bolu Fagborun brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to his new role. He previously served as the head coach for the national men’s team during the MEA Championship 2022 in Ghana. Under his leadership, the men’s team clinched the prestigious MEA Championship title in 2024.

Bolu’s appointment signals the Nigeria Rugby League’s commitment to excellence and ambition to achieve new heights in the women’s game. His impressive achievements with the men’s team, particularly the 2024 MEA Championship victory, demonstrate his ability to lead and inspire his players to reach their full potential.

The upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Kenya present a significant opportunity for the women’s team to showcase their talent and determination on the international stage. With Bolu at the helm, the Nigeria Rugby League is optimistic about the team’s chances of success. Should Bolu secure victory for Nigeria, the women’s team will earn a spot in the World Series next year.

Qualifiers Schedule:

Match 1: Nigeria vs. Kenya
Date: September 19, 2024
Venue: Nairobi, Kenya

Match 2: Kenya vs. Nigeria
Date: September 22, 2024
Venue: Nairobi,

We are thrilled to have Bolu Fagborun take on the role of head coach for our women’s national team, said Ade Adebisi vice chairman of the Nigeria Rugby League. “His exceptional coaching abilities and previous successes with the men’s team make him the ideal choice to lead our women as they strive to qualify for the World Cup.”

Bolu Fagborun expressed his excitement about the new challenge, stating, “I am honored to be appointed as the head coach for the women’s team. The talent and potential within this team are immense, and I am confident that we can achieve great things together. Our focus now is on thorough preparation and executing our game plan to secure qualification for the World Cup.

The Nigeria Rugby League and its supporters are eagerly looking forward to the qualifiers and are committed to providing all necessary support to the women’s team as they embark on this crucial journey.

Aerial Robotix Becomes Main Sponsor of Nigeria Rugby League, Launches the 2024 Aerial Robotix NRLA Championship

Lagos, Nigeria – July 13, 2024 – Aerial Robotix, a leading provider of drone services in West Africa, is proud to announce its sponsorship of the Nigeria Rugby League in the National League for the 2024 season. The league, now named the Aerial Robotix NRLA Championship 2024, will feature competitions across the southern and northern regions of Nigeria, covering men’s, women’s, and under-19s divisions.

Founded in 2016 and based in Lagos, Aerial Robotix is a 100% indigenous Nigerian company specializing in geodesy, topographic surveying, inspections, aerial imagery, and 3D visualization using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The company’s commitment to safety, reliability, and excellence has made it a leader in the industry and the partner of choice for many clients in West Africa.

Aerial Robotix and Nigeria Rugby League: A Partnership for Growth

The Nigeria Rugby League Association (NRLA) aims to develop rugby league in Nigeria, providing opportunities for individuals to improve their lives through the sport. By partnering with Aerial Robotix, the NRLA seeks to enhance the visibility and reach of rugby league in Nigeria, encouraging participation at all levels and fostering a sense of community and sportsmanship.

We are thrilled to have Aerial Robotix as our main sponsor for the 2024 season,” said Abiodun Olawale-Cole NRLA Chairman.
Their support will be instrumental in helping us achieve our objectives of growing rugby league in Nigeria and offering people the chance to engage in a positive and impactful activity.

Commitment to Excellence

Aerial Robotix’s involvement in the NRLA Championship is a testament to the company’s dedication to supporting local initiatives and promoting the development of sports in Nigeria. The company’s experience in delivering precise and detailed reports through advanced drone technology aligns with the NRLA’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

At Aerial Robotix, we believe in giving back to our community and supporting initiatives that inspire and uplift people, said Aerial Robotix Representative’s Nkesi Echem, human resources manager. We are excited to be part of the Nigeria Rugby League’s journey and look forward to a successful and thrilling season.

Looking Ahead

The Aerial Robotix NRLA Championship 2024 promises to be an exciting and competitive season, with teams from across Nigeria competing for the top honors. This sponsorship marks a significant milestone in the growth of rugby league in Nigeria, paving the way for future collaborations and developments in the sport.

For more information about the Aerial Robotix NRLA Championship 2024 and updates on the league, please visit Nigeriarugbyleague.org

About Aerial Robotix

Established in 2016, Aerial Robotix is a premier drone service provider based in Lagos, Nigeria. The company specializes in geodesy, topographic surveying, inspections, aerial imagery, and 3D visualization. With a strong focus on safety, reliability, and quality, Aerial Robotix aims to be the leading partner for UAV services in West Africa. The company holds a Nigerian Remote Operator Certificate (ROC) issued by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.

NRLA:Lagos Rhino Captain Reveals Team’s Success in Week One

Captain of Lagos Rhinos Rugby Football Club,Nwabichiri Raphael said their victory against R2 Finesse Rugby Football Club was well deserved in the week one of the ongoing Nigeria Rugby League Season of Southern Conference.

Lagos Rhinos began their campaign on a winning note following their victory over R2 Finesse at the CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Lagos.

The pulsating tie which was played over the weekend saw Rhinos defeated R2 Finesse 32-30.The game was keenly contested as Lagos Rhinos managed to win with a slim margin.

Speaking after the enconter,Rapheal admitted that their opponents gave them a run for their money and thanked God for the team’s succes.

He also disclosed that the game was keenly contested and commended his colleagues for their doggedness amd resilience showed throughout the enconter.

“It was a tough game for us and at a point i thought we would lose the match but i must commend my colleagues for their fighting spirit and commitment to the game.We were resilient and dogged throughout the game and our victory was well deserved,”he said.

R2 Finesse Captain, Alex Odey expressed sadness that his team lost narrowly to their opponents and remained optimistic that the team would bounce back in their next game.

“We came here to win unfortunately it did not go the way we wanted it.Let me confess that our opponents were a good side and the better side won.It was a league quite alright and we would be stronger in our next game,”he said.

Match cordinator, Samson Okeowo expressed satisfaction with the performance of the two teams saying that the game was keenly contested and the better side won.

He said the purpose of the league was to develop the the game of rugby at the grassroots clubs and also gives players a platform to showcase their God given talents.

He disclosed that the league is also served as a preparatory ground to select players ahead of world cup qualifiers against Kenya sheduled for later in the year.

He however thanked First Dominion Insurance Brokers Limited for its finacial support given to the league and charged other bodies to contribute their own quota to the development of rugby football at the grassroots level.

Meanwhile a total of five teams involved in both men and women categories , while five teams also registered for the U-19 male category.

Ghana women suffers another defeat from Nigerian women-International friendly

In stifling heat, Nigeria’s women completed a 3-0 series victory over Ghana with a 30-20 success at the University of Accra Mensah Sarbah Field in Legon, in the first senior rugby league international of the calendar year.

The hosts led narrowly at the break but tries from Abbah Chinuza and Akhihiero Pedro in a six minute spell around the hour mark set the visitors on their way to victory, hooker Akinede Rukayat posting a try double.

Nigeria women’s head coach, Samson Okeowo, said: “”It has been a great privilege to be a part of this occasion, both teams performed fantastically and Ghana have really stepped up after our games in Nigeria. Our Green Falcons were excellent and it shows that the future of women’s rugby league in the MEA region is bright.”

His captain, Jimoh Rukayat – who came off the bench – added: “We knew this game was going to be tough and indeed it was, but my girls stood up to the challenge well. The support we have had from our coaches and management has been superb and we look now to take this forward to the World Cup qualifiers.”

Ghana opened the scoring with the best try of the game, winger Cynthia Anafo sprinting clear from 50 metres out.

“It was a great game and you could see our improvement, especially in attack,” commented Ghana women’s head coach, Riddick Alibah. “We are excited about our prospects and, technically, the girls are making progress. We keep putting in the work and we can see their understanding getting better, there is much more to learn but they played their hearts out, it was a great day organization-wise.”

Ghana and Nigeria Women Name Squads For First International Of 2024

The first senior international for world ranking points of 2024 will be played on Sunday, January 28, when Ghana’s women host Nigeria at the Mensah Sarbah Field in Legon (kick off 2pm, local time). The nations created history last November in Lagos when playing the first sanctioned women’s fixtures on the continent in Lagos, Nigeria winning 40-4 and 14-6.

Ghana women’s head coach, Riddick Alibah, commented: “We are ready for the game. After analysing our progress from game one to game two, we’re confident that this match will be captivating. The team is a bit nervous, fuelled by their strong desire to win. Our training sessions have been productive and our game plan is straightforward, take it step by step, give your all, and fight until the end. Every player is committed to putting forth their best effort, and we’re determined to secure a victory.”

Opposite number, Samson Okeowo, said: “The team remains steadfast in its commitment to enhance performance, building on the success of the last two games. The journey to Accra is a crucial step for the Green Falcons as we aim for victory against the Leopardesses, paving the way for our Women’s MEA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Kenya later in the year.”

GHANA SQUAD
Cynthia Anafo, Elizabeth Adongo, Fati Bhon , Mary Obeng, Jennifer Moncar, Fauzia Nurudeen, Hilaria Wuaku (Accra Panthers RLFC), Belinda Ayele, Ivy Benyah, Estelle Haizel , Rose Sewornu, Shamsiya Tahiru, Sheila Tettey (Nungua Tigers), Jacqueline Ansah, Marceline Ashie , Gracelove Hammond, Eunice Lawoe ,Adiza Mohammed, Millicent Njomaba (Skolars RLC)

NIGERIA SQUAD
Umude Blessing Ajiroghene, Obi Stephanie Bella, Oseni Muinat., Innocent Adaeze Precious (Eko Trinity), Elizabeth Adie Nyangbe, Ruth Odey Emuji (Kano Lions), Imoisi Abuovbo, Abbah Chinaza Blessing, Mane Augustar Efe, Aladeyelu Blessing Funmilayo, Bayere Lauretta, Ukoha Sampson Godfirst, Akinde Rukayat, Iyoha Success (Lagos Haven), Ukwuoma Precious Endurance, Akhihiero Pedro Vera, Nwankpa Chioma Justina, Jimoh Rukayat, Grace David Alaba (Zaria Bees)  

Hull FC Announce Nigeria International Development Centre

The partnership will form an elite link between the Black & Whites and Nigeria Rugby League as part of the club’s ever-expanding Centre of Excellence footprint, which now features several regional and international development hubs across the UK and further afield.

The club’s development programmes are not only blossoming in Hull, following record breaking participant numbers and a new development hub at the University of Hull, but this is now further enhanced by regional and national development centres. 

On the back of a regional Centre of Excellence pilot scheme in Cumbria, in partnership with Whitehaven RLFC, the club have now launched a development centre in Nigeria, one of the fastest growing areas for rugby league participation with thousands of players now participating in the sport.

The agreement will see the Airlie Birds work alongside the NRLA to deliver an exclusive development, 

education and talent ID programme on the African continent, with the aim of developing and recruiting talented Nigerian athletes, and building a clear pathway for NRLA players into an elite sporting environment.

Regular camps, both in Nigeria and for Nigerian-born players in the UK, will focus on areas including conditioning, coach development, nutritional advice, and skill acquisition, with members of the club’s Centre of Excellence staff travelling to Nigeria to support the project overseas.

It is the ambition of the club that the programme will both raise the profile of the sport of Rugby League and increase participation in Nigeria, as well as playing a role in enhancing the Nigeria National Rugby League team, who are currently an RLIF observer nation.

A staff development programme will aim to enhance the capabilities of community coaches in Nigeria, with talent ID camps and weekly grassroots sessions in schools for players aged 14-18 forming a major part of the partnership. 

Participants and coaches will also receive Hull FC branded training wear and will play in the club’s famous black and white irregular hooped kit.

The partnership will see the Black & Whites receive regular scouting reports and performance data, allowing them to select the most promising athletes to progress with the club, who will offer unconditional places within the club’s Centre of Excellence programme in Hull and potentially into higher education with the University of Hull, which already boasts a strong Nigerian student population.

The Nigeria hub is set to be the first of several international and regional hubs announced by the Black & Whites over the coming months, with the club set to announce partnerships in two further continents before the end of 2022, as well as three further regional hubs in England.

The Category 1 ‘Outstanding’ rated Centre of Excellence has made significant strides since its formation in 2020, now boasting over 120 Hull-based male and female athletes, including several Rising Stars who are training with the first-team squad, embedding pathways for our Girls sides, and now expanding into international development.

So far this year, the club’s various male and female teams under the age of 18 have lost just three times this season between them, with the club’s academy squad undefeated, whilst the U16 and U14 girls squads have both won their respective leagues as the club builds for the future. 

Fittingly, a former Hull FC Academy player, Ade Adebisi, who is currently the Vice President and General Manager of the NRLA, will head up the project in Nigeria.

He said: “We are really excited about this opportunity to work with one of the sport’s most forward-thinking clubs to deliver one of the best Centre of Excellence programmes the sport has seen.

“We were grateful to have several clubs at our disposal, but once we heard from James about the plans for the club, the amazing work they’re already delivering in their region and their plans for further expansion, we jumped at the chance to work with Hull FC. 

“I am invested personally in this partnership having played for Hull FC early in my career and having experience first-hand the positive impact this work can have on young people.

“The club will soon boast some of the best facilities in the competition and an unrivalled education pathway and we can see the genuine route through for young Nigeria athletes and students, both migrating from Nigeria and those already based in the UK.”

He added, “This is an exciting partnership that will benefit Nigeria at both an elite and development level as we look to establish ourselves as a significant member of the international rugby league community over the years ahead.”

Hull FC Chief Executive, James Clark, added: “This is another exciting aspect of our long-term strategy to be at the forefront of youth development and talentID for the years ahead.

“We are already seeing the benefit of the time, energy and resources we’re investing in our Centre of Excellence programme in Hull, but this is the first time we have expanded beyond our traditional heartland.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to compliment the work we’re doing locally to not only unearth and attract new talent, but to also support the growth of the game and raise the profile of rugby league in new areas as part of our long-term commitment to developing players and coaches of the future.”

Rugby League: Nigeria to face Ghana in first Women’s International to hold in Africa

The initial squads have been announced for the first senior women’s internationals to be played in Africa. Nigeria faces Ghana in a three-match series, with the first two games taking place in Lagos at the CMS Grandma School on November 3 and 5. The third match will be in Ghana on December 9 at the University of Ghana in Accra.

Nigeria vice chairman and general manager, Ade Adebisi, commented: “As we prepare to make history, we stand at the forefront of a transformative moment for women’s sports in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.

This fixture is not just about the game; it’s a symbol of empowerment, resilience, and a commitment to breaking barriers. We’re proud to provide a platform for our female athletes to shine and showcase their talent on an international stage.”

He added, “This match is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Nigeria Rugby League Association and the incredible progress we’ve made in promoting gender equality in sports. It is also a crucial step towards our goal of achieving full membership with the IRL.

“We are thrilled to contribute to the growth of rugby league in our region and beyond. We look forward to a competitive match that will leave a lasting mark on the world of women’s rugby league. Together, we are forging a path towards greater inclusivity, equality, and excellence in sport.”

Juliana Storey, president of Rugby League Federation Ghana, noted: “International exposure is priceless for our women’s rugby league team. Our historic match against Nigeria marks not only a significant milestone but also an incredible opportunity to foster the growth of our beloved sport and entice more women to join our ranks.

This momentous test is our gateway to possible 2026 World Cup qualification, and with determination and teamwork, we are on our way to making history. Together, we are building a brighter future for women’s rugby league in Ghana.”

GHANA SQUAD

Bhom Fati, Cynthia Anafo Anyokama, Fauziya Nurudeen Larry, Hilaria Wuaku, Jennifer Teiko Moncar, Mary Obeng (Accra Panthers), Angela Yakubu Adjuik, Belinda Ayele, Estelle Haizel, Rosemary Sewornu, Shamsiya Tahiru, Sheila Tetteh (Nungua Tigers), Adiza Mohammed Bogobiri, Bernice Padikie Awohteye, Eunice Awuni, Eunice Lawoe, Hammond Grace Adjoa, Jacqueline Ansah, Joyce Mamle Obubuafo, Marceline Ashie, Millicent Nborti Njomaba, Nadia Enyan (Skolars RLFC)

NIGERIA SQUAD

Adaeze Innocent, Abuovbo Imoisi, Barakat Aribidesi, Chioma Nwakpa, Oseni Muyinat, Obi Joneveine, Prelious Ukwuoma Sukurat Nojimu, Umude Blessing (Eko Trinity), Bright Anthony Akpan, Elizabeth Adie Nyangbe, Cynthia Ishaya, Grace David, Ruth Odey, (Kano lions), Rukayat, Aladegelu Blessing, Augusta Mene, Chiaza Precious, Godfirst Samson, Lauretta Gabriel, Success Iyoha, Perpetual Nwanya, Vera Akihiero, (Lagos Haven), Abiola Obazuaye, Jimoh Rukayat, Kafayat Ashagbesoro, Prelious Ukwuoma, (R2 Finesse Lagos)

Nigeria Rugby League gets kick off date

The Northern Conference and the Sothern Conference of the Nigeria Rugby League Association (NRLA) is set to kick off in July. Current title holders of the Northern and the Southern, Lagos Haven and Kano Lions are set to defend their title respectively in their different regions.

The Opener of the new league season in the North Conference will see defending champions, Kano Lions playing their first game against Jos Miners while in the South Conference, Lagos Haven will slug it out with Lagos Rhinos.

The female are not left out as Lagos Haven Female team will also kick off their league season facing Eko Trinity female team.

Chairman of the Nigeria Rugby League Association (NRLA), Abiodun Olawale Cole, noted: “I would like to thank all the executives, members and fans of NRLA for getting us this far and for looking forward to a new season come July, Our efforts locally and internationally shall see Nigeria take its place amongst the great nations of the international rugby league especially featuring at the forth coming MEA coming up in Ghana this September.”

Speaking with the NRLA Trustee, Martin Crawford (OBE) “We are very excited to kick off the season in the North come July which we are looking forward to alongside the MEA Championship coming up in Ghana this September.”

Mr. Martin also mentioned that the female team in the North will have their debut game this season.

ice-Chairman and General Manager, Nigeria Rugby League Association (NRLA), Ade Adebisi, added that it’s great to see all female teams getting expanded this year across the conferences. “We are certainly in for a hard-fought men’s competition this year with many players far more experienced than in the maiden season in 2019 and desperate to get back to playing especially in the MEA tournament.”

MEA CHAMPIONSHIP

The Middle East and Africa Championship to be hosted by Ghana is looking forward to witness the Nigerian national team also known as the Green Hawks.The defending champions, Nigeria Green Hawks will be looking forward to defend the its title which they won in 2019.

The Green Hawks cheered by a boisterous home crowd defeated West African rivals Ghana on their international Rugby League debut in 2019 to make the finals while the Atlas Lions of Morocco beat Morocco on their way to the final which also they won 38-10.

In the third place encounter between Ghana and Cameroon, it was Ghana who carried the day with a 10-4 victory over Cameroon who finished the championship without a win.

The tournament will kick off on Thursday 27th Sept – Sunday 2nd Oct 2022.

NORTHERN CONFERENCE FIXTURES

WEEKHOMEAWAYDATETIME
WK 1Kano LionsVSJos Miners23-07-2311:00am
Zazzau BullsVSKano Gazelles23-07-2312:30pm
WK 2Zazzau BullsVSKano Lions30-07-2311:00am
Jos MinersVSKano Gazelles30-07-2312:30pm
WK 3Kano LionsVSKano Gazelles06-08-2311:00am
Jos MinersVSZazzau Bulls06-08-2312:30pm

SOUTH-WEST CONFERENCE FIXTURES

WEEKHOMEAWAYDATETIME
WK 1Lagos HavenVSEko Trinity02-07-2311:00am
R2 Finesse RLVSLagos Rhino02-07-2312:30pm
WK 2R2 Finesse RLVSLagos Haven09-07-2311:00am
Lagos RhinoVSEko Trinity09-07-2312:30pm
WK 3Lagos HavenVSLagos Rhino16-07-2311:00am
Eko TrinityVSR2 Finesse RL16-07-2312:30pm
WK 4Eko TrinityVSLagos Rhino23-07-2311:30am
Lagos HavenVSR2 Finesse FA23-07-2312:30pm
Lagos Haven(Women)VSEko Trinity(Women)23-07-2314:00
WK 5R2 Finesse RLVSEko Trinity30-07-2311:30
Lagos RhinoVSLagos Haven30-07-2312:30
Eko Trinity(women)VSLagos Haven(women)30-07-2314:00
WK 6Eko TrinityVSLagos Haven06-08-2311:00
Lagos RhinoVSR2 Finesse RL06-08-2312;30
Lagos Haven(women)VSEko Trinity(women)06-08-2314:00

Rugby League: Nigeria ranked 1st in Africa, 24th in world

The Nigerian rugby league also known as the green hawks have been ranked number one in Nigeria and also moved up from 28th to 24th in the world

South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria and Cameroon have moved up in the IRL World Rankings
South Africa climbed to the 25th spot from 30th Ghana rose five positions, from 31st to 26th. They are now ranked third in Africa

Unfortunately, Morocco fell from 33rd to 43rd; this is as a resulted from the lack of competition participation in 202. Currently, they are rated fifth in Africa.

According to the International Rugby League, the IRL WORLD rankings are determined by the following criteria.

Teams are awarded ranking points each time they play a sanctioned international fixture.

Result and margin: the bigger to win the more points the winning team receives and the fewer points are awarded to the loser.

Strength of opponent: the higher the ranking of the opponent the greater the weighting of the result.

Importance of the match: Games in the official competition are weighed higher than bi-lateral arranged games. Rugby league world cup games carry the greatest weighting and more recent games are weighted higher than older games and only games since the 2017 world cup are considered.


The rankings reward teams who are active and win games.