The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) will host a coaching and medical course in Abeokuta from 23rd to 25th April 2026. The event takes place at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena and is being run in partnership with the Ogun State Government. It targets grassroots development, equipping coaches and medical personnel with updated techniques and safety protocols for rugby. Over 100 participants are expected, including trainers from 15 states. NRFF President, Herbert Ovo, stated, "This course is about building capacity and ensuring that rugby grows safely and sustainably across Nigeria." The curriculum includes injury management, player conditioning, and age-grade coaching strategies. Certification will be awarded to attendees who complete the programme.
Herbert Ovo's push for certified coaching and medical training signals a rare focus on structure in Nigerian sports administration. By anchoring the programme in Abeokuta with state-level backing, the NRFF is laying groundwork beyond photo-op engagements. If replicated across regions, this model could professionalize support roles often treated as afterthoughts in grassroots sport. For Nigerian rugby, that might mean fewer preventable injuries and more consistent player development.
