Abeokuta, Ogun State — In a significant push to deepen grassroots development and technical capacity in Nigerian rugby, Tunde Delu, the Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, is set to facilitate a three-day Rugby Coaching and Medical Course in Abeokuta.
The programme, organised in collaboration with the Ogun State Rugby Association, will run from April 23 to 25, 2026, at the MITROS Residences and the MKO Abiola Sports Arena.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the federation to strengthen the foundation of rugby in Nigeria by equipping key stakeholders with modern knowledge and practical skills. Coaches and medical personnel participating in the training will be exposed to critical areas such as player welfare, injury management, coaching methodologies, and athlete development.
Speaking ahead of the programme, Delu emphasised the importance of building a technically sound base for the sport, noting that the course is designed not only to improve current standards but also to prepare participants for advanced certifications.
According to him, the training will serve as a pathway toward Level 1 and Level 2 coaching and medical certifications. It will also contribute to the development of qualified educators in anticipation of upcoming programmes by World Rugby later in the year.
To ensure a productive learning environment, prospective participants are expected to have completed foundational modules, including Rugby Ready, Safeguarding, and introductory coaching and medical courses prior to attending the training.
In a related development, organisers have announced the postponement of the third edition of the Abeokuta Rugby 7s tournament. The competition, initially slated for April 25–26, will now take place in June to allow for enhanced planning and increased participation from clubs nationwide.
Since its inception, the tournament has grown steadily in prominence within Nigeria’s rugby calendar. Cowrie RFC emerged champions of the maiden edition after defeating Racing RFC 26–21 in a closely contested final that highlighted the sport’s rising competitiveness in the country.
Organisers say the rescheduling will further elevate the tournament’s profile, providing a stronger platform for clubs to showcase talent while contributing to the continued expansion of rugby across Nigeria.
