… Talks Underway to Potentially Host National AGM
The Enugu State Government is taking a strategic step in youth sports development with the forthcoming inauguration of the Enugu State Rugby Association, aimed at expanding rugby’s reach and creating new opportunities for young athletes across the state.
This milestone is further underscored by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Enugu State, Barr. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr., who has graciously accepted the role of Patron of Rugby in Nigeria. Barr. Ekweremadu, a distinguished barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment through sports during a high-level meeting with officials from the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF).
The NRFF delegation—comprising General Manager Azeez Ladipo, Chief Operating Officer Babatunde Adeluola, and General Secretary Chinedu Osuoha—met with the Commissioner to discuss collaborative efforts for the development of rugby in Enugu State.
“I am honored to be selected as a patron of rugby in Nigeria,” said Commissioner Ekweremadu. “I assure you of the Enugu State Government’s full support. We will inaugurate the Rugby Association to accelerate the growth of the sport across the state. Regarding the Annual General Meeting (AGM), we will evaluate the requirements and explore the possibility of Enugu hosting it.”
Speaking on behalf of the NRFF, General Manager Azeez Ladipo reiterated the Federation’s readiness to support the state’s rugby development initiatives.
“The Federation is committed to providing technical expertise, workforce training, and grassroots development programs,” Ladipo stated. “We aim to introduce rugby into schools, communities, and higher institutions across Enugu State.”
As part of the visit, the NRFF team conducted an inspection of various sports facilities in the city. Impressed by what they observed, Ladipo remarked, “The facilities are simply outstanding. With what we’ve seen on ground, nothing is stopping rugby in Enugu.”
The establishment of the Enugu State Rugby Association positions the state among a growing list of forward-thinking regions embracing rugby as a tool for youth development and sporting excellence. Talks are ongoing regarding Enugu’s potential role as host of the NRFF’s upcoming AGM—a development that could further spotlight the state as a rising hub for rugby in Nigeria.
This initiative heralds a promising chapter for rugby in Enugu, with stakeholders confident in its potential to drive youth engagement, talent discovery, and the broader growth of the sport across the nation.
