Middlesex Rugby
London Nigerian RFC tour Nigeria
Ernest Hanson reports
London Nigerian Rugby club, based in White City, have just returned from a 10 day inaugural tour of Nigeria.The primary goal of the tour was to aid the development of the existing rugby structure in Nigeria, by distributing equipment and kit and playing in 3 matches/mini tournaments against local sides. Other key goals included laying the foundation for a youth structure within the Nigerian game, leaving a legacy of the beginnings of an internationally recognised coaching structure by holding of a 2 day Coaching Badge Clinic.In addition the club also wants to see the inauguration of Rugby4Nigeria Schools competitions in Lagos and Ilorin.
The London Nigerian Rugby Club Ambassador Tour 2007 to Nigeria was made possible through the fund raising efforts of the playing members, the clubs patrons and several corporate sponsors. Head line sponsor Virgin Nigeria covered the flights for the 30 man tour party to the West African country. Club captain Wole Olufunwa, stated that, “without the support of sponsors such as Virgin Nigeria and First Bank Nigeria, this historic event would not be taking place, as the logistics and financial commitments would have proved a major obstacle.
Nigeria has a population of over 150 million and counting and provides an untapped source of rugby talent.Though it is not a well known fact, Nigerians are ideally suited to rugby union, this has resulted in many gaining international honours in Scotland, Wales, France and England. The best known, being Chris Oti, Victor Ubogu, Steve Ojomoh, Dayo Adebayo and Andy Harriman; the latter was also the World Cup winning England Sevens captain and a former manager of the England ‘A’ side. Whilst Martin Offiah and Abi Ekoku have both played for the Great Britain Rugby League team.
Given the success of the tour, including backing from Virgin Nigeria, First Bank of Nigeria and Exxon Mobil, the West London rugby club aims to do another tour to the region next year and may include Ghana and Cameroon. The mid term vision is to establish an annual pan-African rugby tournament. Rugby in the continent continues to be over shadowed by football and while London Nigerian RFC has no aims of replacing its rival sport, the development of the sport will provide additional choice and enjoyment.The club is hoping to communicate its goals to the IRB as the tour was well received.
