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…Kicks Off Rugby Rising Program
The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has announced an ambitious lineup of activities for the 2025 calendar year, featuring a mix of local and international tournaments, training programs, and developmental initiatives aimed at growing the sport across the nation.
Rugby Rising Play Nigeria Launch (15 States)
Kicking off the year on February 10, the Rugby Rising Play Nigeria initiative will be launched across 15 states, marking a significant step in grassroots rugby development.
National 15s League Season (South East)
The South East zone will host the National 15s League from March 28-30 in Abia State, setting the stage for competitive regional rugby.
World Anti-Doping Agency Seminar
In preparation for international competitions, the NRFF will organize a World Anti-Doping Agency seminar for national teams on March 6-7.
International Women’s Day Celebrations
Aligned with global celebrations, the NRFF will honor International Women’s Day on March 8 with events across the North, East, West, and South regions, highlighting the growing role of women in rugby.
Training Courses by Local World Rugby Educators
From May 22-25, World Rugby-certified educators will conduct Level 1 training courses for medical personnel, coaches, match officials, and strength & conditioning experts. Dates for additional sessions in September are yet to be determined.
NRFF General Assembly
The NRFF General Assembly is scheduled for April, bringing together stakeholders to discuss the federation’s progress and future plans.
Rugby Rising Festival and Hon Tunde Delu Rugby Super 4
On April 5, Ogun State will host the Rugby Rising Festival alongside the Hon Tunde Delu Rugby Super 4, featuring four invitational teams.
NRFF National League Finals – Super Cup
The winners of the zonal leagues will compete in the NRFF National League Finals, also known as the Super Cup, in Lagos State on April 12.
National Open 7s Tournament (U18 Boys and Girls)
Young talents will take center stage during the National Open 7s Tournament for U18 boys and girls, scheduled for April 26-27.
Turbo Crest Beach Rugby
Beach rugby enthusiasts can look forward to the Turbo Crest Beach Rugby event in April, though the exact date remains to be confirmed.
National 7s Tournaments and Coaches Clinic
Lagos will host a National 7s Tournament for men and women, alongside a coaches clinic led by renowned Coach Steve Lewis, on May 10-11. A similar event will follow in Kano on May 17-18.
National 7s Camp (Men’s)
The men’s national team will undergo intensive training at a 7s camp in Lagos from June 3-17, in preparation for international competitions.
Africa Cup 7s (Men’s National Team)
Nigeria’s men’s national team will compete in the Africa Cup 7s in Mauritius from June 18-23.
Lilleker Tournament 15s
Zaria will host the Lilleker Tournament 15s in June, showcasing top-tier rugby talent.
National 15s League Season (Multiple Zones)
The National 15s League will continue across the North, South West, South East, and South South zones from June to October.
Marie Koré U12 International Tournament
Nigeria’s U12 boys’ national team will participate in the Marie Koré International Tournament in Cote D’Ivoire from July 14-21.
NRFF National League Finals 2025
The winners of all leagues will converge in the North region in November for the NRFF National League Finals.
National Youth Games Rugby 7s (U15 Boys & Girls)
Asaba will host the National Youth Games Rugby 7s for U15 boys and girls in September.
Safari Sevens Tournament
Nigeria’s men’s and women’s 7s teams will compete in the Safari Sevens Tournament in Nairobi, Kenya, from October 10-12.
National Schools 7s Tournament
The Get Into Rugby Schools Festival 2.0 will feature a National Schools 7s Tournament in November, promoting rugby among young students.
West Africa Rugby Series
Lagos State will host the West Africa Rugby Series, featuring teams from Nigeria, Ghana, and Cote D’Ivoire, from November 3-9.
Annual General Meeting
The NRFF will conclude the year with its Annual General Meeting on December 4, reviewing the year’s achievements and setting goals for 2026.
With this packed schedule, the NRFF aims to elevate rugby’s profile in Nigeria, fostering talent and promoting the sport at all levels
