Sports
THE Nigeria Rugby Football Federation says poor funding, weak infrastructure, and low awareness still hinder grassroots rugby development across Nigeria.
Its General Manager, Azeez Ladipo, said this on Tuesday in Lagos during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria NAN.
He said many schools and local clubs lacked quality playing fields, rugby balls, kits, and other essential training equipment.
“In many places, young people are interested in rugby, but there are no proper facilities to support them. This makes development very difficult,” Ladipo added.
He said many children interested in rugby also lacked safe spaces to play or train regularly.
“Funding remains one of our biggest challenges because grassroots development does not produce immediate results.
“Grassroots development is a long-term investment, but commitment will eventually deliver success,” Ladipo said.
He said building players from beginner to professional level requires patience, time, and sustained financial investment.
“Many programmes begin with energy and excitement, but without funding, they stop halfway.
“That remains one of our biggest concerns,” Ladipo added.
He noted rugby awareness remains low compared with football and basketball across Nigeria.
“Rugby is still new to many Nigerians, and some have never watched a match before.
“They do not fully understand the game,” Ladipo added.
He said many young Nigerians, especially in rural communities and public schools, have never seen or played rugby.
“Because of low awareness, we are losing talented children who need early exposure,” he said.
According to him, introducing rugby early helps children develop skills, confidence, and understanding of the game.
“We want to catch them young, because early starters grow better with the sport,” he said.
He said the federation was reintroducing rugby in schools through awareness campaigns and training programmes.
“We are engaging students and teachers, while making rugby simple and enjoyable to learn,” Ladipo said.
He stressed the need to train more coaches and referees across the country.
He said: “Coaches play a key role in development, and good coaches produce better players.
“Referees maintain discipline and fairness, and competitions cannot run smoothly without them.”
He described competitions as essential for player development and experience.
“Players improve faster through matches, while competition strengthens teamwork and confidence,” he said.
In spite of the challenges, Ladipo said rugby had recorded steady progress in recent years.
“More states are getting involved, and more young people are showing interest,” he said.
He added that more competitions were being organised, with corporate organisations also showing interest.
“There is increasing sponsor interest, and that is encouraging for rugby’s future,” Ladipo said.
He said the federation had introduced T1 rugby in about 20 states. “This version is safer and easier for beginners, especially young girls entering the sport,” he said.
According to him, the programme has engaged more than 6,700 girls aged 10 to 18. “It promotes inclusion and creates equal opportunities in sport,” Ladipo said.
He said non-contact rugby helps beginners learn the sport without fear of injury.
“Once they master the basics, they can progress to full-contact rugby,” he said.
“The federation now has locally trained educators certified by World Rugby.
“With our educators, we can train people nationwide without depending entirely on external support,” he said.
He expressed optimism about rugby’s future in Nigeria. “With proper investment, better facilities, and wider awareness, rugby can become one of Nigeria’s leading sports,” he said. NAN
A. A
MAY.12, 2026
Tags: Azeez Ladipo facilities stall grassroots rugby growth Federation says funding General Manager