The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation said sustained grassroots programmes and investment are expanding rugby participation across the country.
Its General Manager, Azeez Ladipo, disclosed this on Thursday during an interview in Lagos.
He said the federation remained committed to introducing rugby to young people through schools and community programmes.
“Our focus is taking rugby to schools and communities where young people can easily learn and enjoy the game,” he said.
He said the programmes were designed to keep rugby simple, safe and attractive to beginners, especially students unfamiliar with the sport.
“We make the game easy to understand so young players enjoy it and stay committed,” Ladipo said.
He said inter-school competitions, coaching clinics and teacher training were helping to increase interest and improve understanding of rugby.
“We work closely with grassroots coaches to ensure players learn the right techniques from the beginning,” he said.
Ladipo said talent identification remained central, with federation officials visiting schools and communities to discover promising young players.
“Once we discover young talents, we continue supporting their development and progression,” he said.
He said that several players now representing clubs and regional teams were products of the federation’s grassroots programmes.
“Some players representing teams today started through these programmes. That shows the system is working,” he said.
Ladipo said the federation encouraged both boys and girls to participate, promoting inclusion and balanced representation in rugby.
“We want boys and girls involved because rugby is a sport for everyone,” he said.
He said awareness campaigns, media exposure and community outreach were changing public perceptions of rugby across Nigeria.
“People now understand rugby is about discipline, teamwork, fitness and not just physical strength,” he said.
Ladipo said local tournaments and events had improved rugby’s visibility while attracting sponsors and development partners.
“Competitions and events are helping rugby gain attention and support from sponsors,” he said.
He said the federation was building a pathway from schools to clubs and eventually national team representation.
“We are creating a system where players can progress step by step to the highest level,” he said.
Ladipo added that training coaches and referees remained essential for maintaining standards and ensuring proper organisation.
“Without trained coaches and referees, the game cannot grow properly, so we are investing there,” he said.
He expressed confidence that continued support from government, private organisations and sports enthusiasts would strengthen rugby’s future.
“Grassroots development is the foundation of every successful sport.
“If we continue investing in young players today, rugby’s future in Nigeria will be very bright,” he added.