Abuja: The President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), Ademola Ar©, emphasizes the importance of developing qualified coaches, referees, and medical personnel for the growth of rugby in Nigeria. Ar© made this statement in Abuja during a Level 1 and Level 2 coaching and refereeing seminar organized by the NRFF at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the program is part of the federation’s development plan to establish a strong foundation for rugby by ensuring Nigeria has enough certified personnel for effective participation in international competitions. Ar© highlighted that the strength of a rugby team is not solely dependent on the players but also on the quality of its coaches, referees, and medical staff.
Ar© stated that coaches must attain the proper certification to lead Nigerian teams in international events. Although Nigeria currently has Level 3 coaches, medical personnel, and referees, Ar© stressed the need to increase the number of certified officials across different levels.
He explained that participants are required to progress through various certification levels, gaining active experience at each level before advancing. Supported by the National Sports Commission (NSC), the program is expected to further bolster rugby development in Nigeria.
NRFF Secretary Chinedu Osuoha reported encouraging turnout for the courses, with attendees from different regions. Approximately 56 participants enrolled in the Level 1 course, and over 30 attended the Level 2 course, which is designed for those who have completed Level 1 and gained requisite experience.
Osuoha noted that the training received government sponsorship, with foreign trainers supported by Rugby Africa and World Rugby. Meanwhile, Dr. Steven Buyungo, a Ugandan orthopaedic surgeon and World Rugby medical trainer, commended the NRFF for including medical training in its development initiatives.
Buyungo, who conducted a medical course for rugby doctors during his visit, expressed satisfaction that personnel he previously trained in Asaba have progressed and are now involved in rugby medical training. Encouraging the NRFF to continue expanding the sport, he noted the absence of a rugby club at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium and suggested establishing one to further promote rugby and utilize the facility effectively.