By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has announced plans to launch the Nigeria Rugby League in November 2026, with regional competitions leading to a national Super Cup in Abuja in February 2027.
The decision followed an emergency board meeting in Abuja, where members discussed the league’s format and implementation after the federation secured support for the competition.
The inaugural league is expected to feature six men’s teams and six women’s teams, with regional contests producing six champions who will advance to the national finals.
Speaking after the meeting, NRFF President, Dr. Ademola Are, said the federation had been working behind the scenes to secure the support required to bring the league to fruition.
Are disclosed that a committee had been constituted to review the competition’s format and make recommendations to the board. The committee is expected to submit its report next Thursday.
He also revealed that financial support was being considered for the regional competitions, with funds expected to be made available to facilitate the matches.
In a related development, the federation has appointed six team managers to coordinate rugby activities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The appointments are aimed at strengthening communication between the NRFF and state rugby associations, improving coordination and ensuring the timely dissemination of information across the country.
The planned league represents a significant step in the federation’s efforts to expand domestic rugby competitions, strengthen grassroots structures and provide a platform for male and female players to compete for national honours.
