Representatives from 20 states across the federation will participate in the second edition of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) Rugby Rising Program, scheduled to hold at the Media Centre of the Moshood Kashimawo Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

The event will feature selected coaches who have completed three key World Rugby training modules — Rugby Ready, Concussion Management, and Safeguarding Essentials. The program aims to equip participants with the technical knowledge and modern coaching standards required to deliver a consistent, high-quality rugby experience for girls nationwide.

Building on the success of the maiden edition, which reached 15 states, this year’s edition will expand its reach and impact.

Speaking ahead of the program, NRFF President, Dr. Ademola Are, reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to repositioning rugby in Nigeria through proper training for coaches and referees. He described the second edition of the T1 Rugby Coaching Program as a vital step toward achieving that goal, adding that with the continued support of World Rugby, more coaches and officials will be trained to global standards.

Similarly, NRFF General Manager, Azeez Ladipo, emphasized the importance of the training in developing the sport at all levels. He noted that the quality of instruction directly impacts the growth of rugby, especially among the girl child in the country, which is why the federation is prioritizing well-structured, World Rugby–backed training programs.

Rugby Rising Supervisor, Hussain Wuraola, commended the 20 states that have confirmed participation, describing it as “a step in the right direction for the growth of the game.”

“The foundation is crucial. When coaches are properly trained, they can instill the right philosophy and education in the girls, which will have a ripple effect on the overall development of rugby in Nigeria,” she said.

Wuraola also encouraged participants to complete their remaining modules to fast-track their certification and final confirmation.

Among the selected coaches for the Rugby Rising Play (T1 Rugby Training Course) are: Felix Salami – Lagos State, Nuhu Samaila – Enugu State, Umar Bau – Kano State, Torkwase Adugu – Benue State, Shehu Garba – Bauchi State, Salami Latifat – Ekiti State, Kehinde Adelaja – Ogun State, Sadam Abubakar – Kaduna State, Ola Uchendu – Abia State, Olumide Blessing – Kwara State, Zaki Haske – Plateau State, David Mathias – Rivers State, Paul Vincent – Anambra State, Olawale Kemi – Delta State, Azeez Raafiu – Imo State, Chinedu Leo – FCT Abuja, and Ehiorobo Osaivbie – Edo State.

The program, supervised by Hussain Wuraola, will officially kick off on Friday in Abuja.