Barewa RFC won the Atlantic Rugby 7s tournament in Lagos on Saturday, defeating Cowrie RFC 19-0 in the final at Rugby School Nigeria. The match saw Barewa dominate possession, deliver solid defensive performances, and convert scoring opportunities with precision. In the women's category, AJ Sharks claimed victory with a 7-0 win over Edo Queens, maintaining control through disciplined defense and structured attacking plays. The tournament, featuring 11 teams from Kano, Rivers, Edo, Ogun, Lagos and the Nigeria Police Force, followed the fast-paced rugby sevens format. Azeez Ladipo, General Manager of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, stated the event was designed to provide playing time and rebuild domestic rugby. He described it as a stepping stone toward Nigeria's participation in the upcoming Africa Rugby Sevens in Mauritius. Ladipo added that the competition served as a platform for identifying emerging talents for national assignments. Technological upgrades were introduced by Sportickeroof, including offline digital ticketing and accreditation systems, which improved access and coordination. Nti Martin of Sportickeroof said the system boosted efficiency and would enhance rugby's visibility and sponsorship potential. Adam England, Principal of Rugby School Nigeria, noted Nigeria's strong youth energy and athleticism but highlighted infrastructure and investment as key challenges. Wuraola Hussain, match commissioner and coach of Golden Sharks RFC women's team, said the event also functioned as a trial ground for national team selection.
Barewa's 19-0 shutout of Cowrie RFC exposed the growing gap between well-resourced clubs and the rest of the domestic circuit. With the Nigeria Police Force fielding a team and technological systems now in place, the tournament highlighted uneven development rather than competitive parity. AJ Sharks' 7-0 win over Edo Queens showed women's rugby can deliver decisive outcomes, yet receives none of the investment spotlight. Until infrastructure and funding reach all teams equally, dominance will remain concentrated, not cultivated.
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