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NRFF Unveils National Coaches for Rugby Rising Play Nigeria, A Girl-Child Program

The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has announced the appointment of 15 coaches to spearhead Rugby Rising Play Nigeria, a grassroots initiative aimed at promoting girl-child participation in rugby across the nation

Rugby Rising Play is World Rugby’s first bespoke girls participation programme designed to support efforts in introducing teenage girls to rugby in a progressive and enjoyable manner

The selected coaches, drawn from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, will work under the supervision of Wuraola Hussain, a Rugby Africa-certified educator. They are tasked with driving the development of rugby from the grassroots, fostering inclusivity, and encouraging young girls to take up the sport.

The appointments were made based on the coaches’ completion of T1 Rugby Course, World Rugby’s first non-contact sport that fully reflects the unique characteristics of Rugby, including scrums, lineouts and breakdown with an emphasis on fun, fitness, inclusion and time optimisation.

List of Coaches by State:

1. Amarachi Orji -Abia State

2. Lawrenta Ukponwan-Edo State

3. Azeez Raafiu Abimbola-Rivers State

4. Opene Awuli -Delta State

5. Olanrewaju Teslim Pereira- Abuja FCT

6. Torkwase Adugu -Benue State

7. Innocent Adaeze Precious -Lagos State

8. Paul Adagbo -Plateau State

9. Umar Bau -Kano State

10. Kehinde Adelaja -Ogun State

11. Mohammed Ibrahim -Kwara State

12. Shehu Garba -Bauchi State

13. Moses Dominic Archibong- Akwa Ibom State

14. Vincent Paul -Anambra State

15. Sadam Abubakar -Kaduna State

Supervisor:

Wuraola Hussain – World Rugby -Certified Educator.

Meanwhile, all coaches have successfully completed their safeguarding course in accordance with NRFF and World Rugby’s child protection policies, ensuring a safe and secure environment for children to enjoy rugby.

This strategic initiative aims to harness the talent and potential of young girls, creating pathways for their involvement and growth in rugby at the national level.

Related Topics:Nigeria Rugby Football Federation Rugby Rising Play Nigeria

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Sports heavyweights indicate readiness to volunteer at 2025 ECOWAS Marathon as registration starts

As preparations intensify for the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, key figures in the sports and fitness industry have expressed their eagerness to volunteer and contribute to the event’s success.

The marathon, set for March 1, 2025, is part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary.

With thousands of runners expected to participate in the 21-kilometre half marathon and the 5-kilometre race, volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

Gabriel Okon, the Race Director emphasized the significance of volunteers in an event that dedicated individuals to handle various logistical and operational aspects.

“Marathon is not just about the runners; it’s about the team behind the scenes. Volunteers are the backbone of any successful race, from registration and logistics to hydration stations and medical support. Their role is invaluable in making the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone,” he said.

Application for volunteers opened Monday, February 3, 2025, and interested applicants can pick up a form at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria office, Moshood Abiola Stadium, Package A, Abuja.

Members of the sports family including athletes, coaches, fitness trainers, and others have pledged to support the event in different capacities, from technical assistance to race coordination and mentorship for young runners.

Expressing his delight at the overwhelming response, Okon remarked, “The enthusiasm we are seeing from volunteers is inspiring. From retired directors in the ministry, elite athletes, to community fitness trainers, so many people are eager to be part of this celebration of unity and athleticism. This is more than just a race—it’s a movement that brings people together for a greater cause.”

Beyond the competition itself, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon represents an opportunity to promote health, youth empowerment, and regional unity through sports.

With over $71,000 in prize money up for grabs, the event is expected to attract elite runners while also encouraging participation from amateur fitness enthusiasts.

Okon stressed that the marathon is not only about athleticism but also about making a lasting impact. “We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy beyond race day. It’s about inspiring people to embrace fitness, fostering friendships across borders, and promoting a culture of healthy living,” he said.

Interested participants can register at www.ecowasabujamarathon.org or visit the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) offices, FCT Sports councils, and local athletics associations across Nigeria.

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McGuigan warns Joshua against fighting Bakole

Boxing legend Barry McGuigan has advised Anthony Joshua to steer clear of facing heavy-hitting Congolese fighter Martin Bakole.

Although rumors of a clash between Joshua and Bakole have circulated for years — with Bakole famously claiming to have hurt Joshua during a sparring session — McGuigan believes it would be a risky move for the British heavyweight star.

Joshua is at a critical point in his career after suffering a devastating knockout by Daniel Dubois in September. He has yet to announce details of his next fight.

Speaking on talkBOXING, McGuigan was clear in his assessment: “If I was managing Anthony Joshua, I wouldn’t go near Martin Bakole,” McGuigan said. “In my opinion, Joshua has only four fights left. He needs to be fighting for a title or against Tyson Fury.”

With Bakole’s reputation as “the most avoided heavyweight in the division,” McGuigan’s cautionary stance underscores the potential danger Joshua faces as he plots his comeback.

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Honourable Ukah Reelected As Captain Of Ibori Golf And Country Club

In a remarkable event of the day, Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Honourable Patrick Ukah has been reelected as the Captain of the Ibori Golf and Country Club (IGGC) in Asaba, Delta State, for the second time.

Honourable Ukah’s reelection came up during the Annual General Meeting of IGGC 2024 held on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025.

In his speech, Honourable Ukah feels excited and honour to be reelected into the prestigious position.

He said: “I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been re-elected as Captain of the Ibori Golf and Country Club (IGGC) in Asaba, Delta State, for the second time.

“As the Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, I’m committed to driving innovation and growth in our state. In my role as Captain of IGGC, I promise to bring more excitement and development to the club, building on the progress we’ve made so far.

“I’m grateful for the trust and support of our members, and I look forward to working together to take IGGC to even greater heights.”