The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has taken a significant step toward advancing rugby in Nigeria by initiating a strategic collaboration with Rugby School Nigeria, a prestigious institution with deep ties to the sport’s origins.
On June 14, 2025, NRFF General Manager Azeez Ladipo led a delegation to the school’s Lagos campus to explore partnerships aimed at promoting rugby at grassroots and institutional levels.
The visit, marked by productive discussions and mutual enthusiasm, signals a new chapter for rugby development in Nigeria. Ladipo met with Rugby School Nigeria’s Principal, Dr. Adam England, to discuss strategies for integrating rugby into the school’s robust sports program and expanding its reach across the country.
The school, which already offers sports such as football, volleyball, cricket, hockey, netball, swimming, and basketball, expressed eagerness to champion rugby as a cornerstone of its athletic offerings.
In a statement shared on Rugby School Nigeria’s LinkedIn page, the institution highlighted the significance of the visit. “We were delighted to welcome Azeez Ladipo, General Manager of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, to Rugby School Nigeria,” the post read. “Our Principal, Dr. Adam England, had a productive discussion with him about the future of rugby in Nigeria and how we can work together to remove barriers to entry for both men and women.”
Dr. England emphasized the cultural synergy between rugby and Nigerian values, noting, “core values of rugby, such as teamwork, resilience, and respect, are deeply embedded in Nigerian culture.” He expressed confidence that Nigerians are “ideally suited” to excel in the sport and affirmed the school’s commitment to promoting rugby at all levels, from schools to workplaces.
Ladipo, in response, lauded Rugby School Nigeria for its warm hospitality and visionary leadership. Speaking on behalf of the NRFF Board, he congratulated Dr. England and his team, including Dr. Joy Isa, for establishing the institution in Lagos.
“I acknowledged the school’s proud heritage, tracing back to Rugby School UK—the very birthplace of the sport,” Ladipo said. He described the school’s presence in Nigeria as a “major milestone” for rugby, underscoring its potential to shape the future of youth rugby development nationwide.
Reflecting on the discussions, Ladipo shared his optimism about the partnership. “It was a real pleasure sharing our vision for rugby’s growth in Nigeria,” he said. “I’m genuinely excited about the journey ahead and the vital role Rugby School Nigeria will play in shaping the future of the game.”
By partnering with institutions like Rugby School Nigeria, the federation aims to nurture talent, foster inclusivity, and elevate the sport’s profile in a country with immense athletic potential.
As both parties move forward with their shared vision, this collaboration promises to open new opportunities for aspiring rugby players and strengthen the sport’s foundation in Nigeria.