Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) have announced a twelve-man team that will participate in the 2024 Olympic pre-qualifiers in Mauritius on June 24 and 25.
It is the first squad named under coach Steve Lewis since his appointment last month. The Black Stallions team is made up of players based in Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the United States and Lewis stated that the aim of the squad selection is to put Nigeria back on the global rugby map after the country’s suspension by World Rugby.
Lewis also affirmed the NRFF’S commitment to bringing back domestic rugby competitions
“Congratulations to the players selected to re-launch Nigeria rugby into the international arena in Mauritius,” the Scotsman said
“For this tournament, players have been drawn primarily from the UK-based Nigerian exiles team who have been competing regularly against top-class opposition this summer.
“Meanwhile, for the longer-term growth of Nigerian rugby, the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation intends to re-establish domestic competitions in order to develop domestic talents and grow the game in Nigeria, as well as incorporating those Nigerian players in the diaspora, be it the UK, the US or elsewhere.
“I am confident these men will acquit themselves well and represent Nigeria Rugby proudly.”
And the countdown begins !!
????????????Road to Paris 2024@mauritiusrugby @RugbyAfrique pic.twitter.com/DSYXnvOd2I
— Nigeria Rugby ???????????? (@NigeriaRugby1) June 5, 2023
The top three teams from the Olympic pre-qualifiers will progress to the Africa Cup Sevens in Zimbabwe later in September.
Nigeria 7s Squad
Aniebonam David Kosisochukwu – (Wimbledon RFC)
Awobowale Olukolade Mobolaji – (Stallions RFC)
Esiri Aaron – Asher Chinedu – (Bournville RFC)
Etim Gabriel John – (Barewa RFC, Kano)
Goualin Pierre Henri – (Old Priorians RFC)
Henry-Ajudua Chukwuyem Frederick – (Atlanta Major League Rugby)
Ilube Matthew Maurice – (Old Priorians RFC)
Jatto Onoru-Oyiza – (Cowrie RFC, Lagos)
Lipede Adenekan Jojoola – (Old Colfeians RFC)
Nwachukwu Declan Chinedu – (Horsham RFC)
Odunlami Oluwadara Olufewa – (University of Bath RFC)
Onyeahasi Alexander George – (Clifton RFC)
