NRFF holds team managers’ masterclass in Abuja to strengthen rugby administration

By Onu Okorie

The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has conducted a Team Managers’ Masterclass in Abuja as part of efforts to strengthen administrative capacity and promote professional management of rugby in the country.
The programme brought together team managers to improve their knowledge and skills in key areas of team administration, planning, communication, competition preparation, player welfare, safeguarding, logistics and compliance with rugby regulations.
The masterclass focused on the vital role team managers play in ensuring the effective coordination and smooth running of rugby teams, particularly in preparing athletes for domestic and international competitions.
Participants were equipped with relevant knowledge to enhance their collaboration with coaches, federation officials and other stakeholders while ensuring that players receive the necessary support and welfare throughout training and competitions.
The initiative also underscored the importance of effective administration in building a structured and sustainable rugby system, with team managers serving as a crucial link between athletes, technical officials and federation administrators.
According to the NRFF, the programme reflects the federation’s commitment to developing rugby in Nigeria through investments in the personnel responsible for managing teams, alongside ongoing efforts to improve the capacity of players and coaches.
The masterclass comes as the federation intensifies efforts to reposition Nigerian rugby and establish a stronger foundation for the sport’s growth and competitiveness.
A key component of the development strategy is the planned commencement of the Nigeria Rugby League in November 2026, which is expected to form part of broader efforts to strengthen the domestic rugby structure and create more opportunities for participation and competition.
The NRFF’s focus on administrative development highlights the recognition that sustainable progress in rugby requires not only talented players and qualified coaches but also competent team managers capable of ensuring effective planning, organisation and compliance with established standards.
Through initiatives such as the Team Managers’ Masterclass, the federation aims to improve the overall management of rugby teams and support the long-term development of the sport in Nigeria.