The Enugu State Government is set to make a bold statement in youth sports development with the inauguration of a Rugby Association, marking another step towards empowering young athletes and expanding the footprint of rugby in Nigeria.
In a significant move, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Enugu State, Barr. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr., a seasoned barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, has accepted the role of Patron of Rugby in Nigeria, underscoring his commitment to youth engagement through sports.
During a strategic meeting with a delegation from the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF)—comprising General Manager Azeez Ladipo, Chief Operating Officer Babatunde Adeluola, and General Secretary Chinedu Osuoha—the Commissioner pledged full support for the growth of rugby in the state.
“I am honored to be chosen as a patron of rugby in Nigeria,” Ekweremadu stated. “I assure you that the Enugu Rugby Association will be inaugurated to drive the game’s development across the state. As for the Annual General Meeting (AGM), we will assess what is required and explore the possibility of hosting it.”
Speaking on behalf of the NRFF, General Manager Azeez Ladipo emphasized the federation’s commitment to providing the necessary support to ensure the smooth establishment and operations of the association.
“We will offer technical assistance, workforce training, and grassroots development programs to introduce rugby in schools, communities, and universities across Enugu State,” Ladipo said.
The delegation proceeded to inspect various facilities across the city, and according to the General Manager of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), “The facilities are simply outstanding. With what we’ve seen on ground, nothing is stopping rugby in Enugu.”
With this initiative, Enugu joins a growing list of states investing in rugby, reflecting a broader movement toward diversifying Nigeria’s sports landscape and creating more opportunities for youth participation. Further deliberations will continue on the state’s potential role in hosting the federation’s next AGM.
This marks a new chapter for rugby in Enugu, and stakeholders are optimistic about its impact on youth empowerment, talent discovery, and the overall growth of the sport in Nigeria.