In a major boost for the Nigerian sporting community, rugby has officially been reinstated into the lineup of the 2024 National Sports Festival, themed “Gateway Games”.
The highly anticipated event is scheduled to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025.
The decision to readmit rugby was confirmed by the Joint Technical Committee for the 22nd edition of the festival, following a unanimous vote after thorough deliberation. The committee cited the sport’s growing national popularity, increased grassroots participation, and expanding fanbase as key reasons for its return.
President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), Dr. Ademola Are, welcomed the news with enthusiasm and gratitude. He extended heartfelt appreciation to the Director General of the National Sports Commission and Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Chief Bukola Olopade; the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka; and the entire Joint Technical Committee for their support and commitment to diversifying Nigeria’s sports landscape.
“This is not just a win for rugby,” Dr. Are remarked, “it’s a golden opportunity for talent discovery and national team development. Nigerians can once again enjoy the excitement of top-level rugby at the festival, and national selectors will be on ground to identify emerging talents ahead of the Africa Cup Sevens in Mauritius, scheduled for June 18–23, 2025.”
The inclusion of rugby is expected to reignite passion among fans and stakeholders, and further elevate the sport’s profile in Nigeria. It also reinforces the National Sports Festival’s mission as a platform for nurturing talent and advancing sports development nationwide.
As preparations continue, all eyes turn to Ogun State, the Gateway State, where this year’s edition of Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event promises to be thrilling, inclusive, and talent-packed.
