Rugby: Lack of Domestic Competitions Threatens Home-based Athletes’ Selection Chances —Ladipo

The General Manager, Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), Azeez Ladipo, has said that inadequate domestic competitions can limit Nigeria-based athletes’ development, competitiveness and chances of national team selection.
Ladipo said regular domestic competitions were essential for athletes to gain experience, improve performance and demonstrate their readiness for national team assignments.
Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, he stressed the importance of sustained investment in grassroots development and domestic sporting structures.
According to him, athletes need consistent competitive opportunities to develop the skills, confidence and match experience required to compete at international level.
He added that inadequate competitions could leave home-based athletes at a disadvantage, compared to their counterparts who participate regularly in highly competitive leagues and tournaments.
Speaking further, Ladipo said regular competitions would also enable coaches and selectors to assess athletes’ abilities and monitor their progress before major international assignments.
He noted that a strong domestic competition structure would help identify emerging talents and provide a pathway for their progression into national teams.
The rugby administrator further stressed that developing athletes required more than discovering talent, adding that they needed sustained opportunities to improve and demonstrate their abilities.
He said investment in sporting facilities, youth development and talent discovery would contribute to building a stronger pool of athletes for national assignments.
Ladipo added that improving domestic competitions was critical in strengthening Nigeria’s international competitiveness.
“This is by ensuring athletes are well equipped and better prepared to meet the demands of elite competition,” he said.
Ladipo then urged relevant sports authorities and stakeholders to support initiatives that would expand competitive opportunities and improve athlete development across the country.
According to him, strengthening domestic sporting structures will help Nigeria identify, nurture and prepare athletes capable of representing the country successfully at the global level.