The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation has unveiled an expansive 2026 calendar of activities aimed at strengthening domestic competitions and repositioning women’s rugby on the continental stage.
In a statement issued in Lagos by its media coordinator, Tolu Oguntimehin, the federation outlined a roadmap focused on grassroots growth, youth development, high performance pathways, and improved international competitiveness in both the 7s and 15s formats.
Central to the plan is an expanded domestic structure described as one of the most comprehensive in recent years. The 2026 season will feature a National 7s Circuit for men and women across host states including Kano, Lagos, Delta, and Edo. A six zone National 15s League covering the North, South West, South East, and South South will culminate in national finals in Abuja.
Youth development remains a priority with initiatives such as Get Into Rugby 2.0 for under 13 and under 18 players, Rugby 7s at the National Youth Games for under 15 athletes, the Golden 7s Schools Tournament, and the National Open 7s for under 18s.
On the international stage, Nigeria is set to compete in the Africa Cup 7s in Mauritius, while also pursuing invitational fixtures and Test opportunities under the structures of Rugby Africa.
A major highlight of the calendar is the renewed focus on women’s rugby. The federation has submitted a bid to host the Africa Cup Women’s 7s Regional Qualifier in Lagos or Ogun State, a move expected to restore Nigeria’s women’s team to continental rankings. Participation in the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Division 1 in Tunisia is also being explored as a pathway to elite competition.
The NRFF described the 2026 season as pivotal, noting that the blueprint is designed to drive performance growth, empower women athletes, and secure Nigeria’s resurgence in African rugby.
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