By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation has stepped up consultations with top military authorities ahead of the maiden Military and Paramilitary Rugby Sevens League.
As part of preparations for the groundbreaking competition, President of the Federation, Ademola Are, met with the Director of Sports at Defence Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal Abidemi Timothy Marquis, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Physical Training, Samuel Osoniyi.
The meeting focused on securing the participation of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force in the inaugural tournament, which is expected to strengthen ties between sports and the armed forces.
Speaking during the engagement, Are praised the military for its efforts in addressing insecurity across the country and commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, for his leadership and reforms within the armed forces.
He described rugby as a sport that builds discipline, resilience, teamwork and physical fitness, stressing that the Federation remains committed to supporting members of the military through sports development initiatives.
Are also appealed for the support of the Defence Headquarters to ensure the active participation of the Army, Navy and Air Force in the proposed league.
In his response, Air Commodore Osoniyi appreciated the Federation for engaging with the Defence Sports Department, noting that sports play a key role in improving the physical and mental readiness of military personnel.
He, however, reiterated that the core responsibility of the armed forces remains the defence of the nation, adding that the military is open to further discussions on the project, subject to operational commitments and approval from the Chief of Defence Staff.
