Paragraph 1: Nigeria Sets Sights on Rugby Sevens Glory in Mauritius
The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has unveiled its 12-man squad poised to compete in the high-stakes 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Tournament. This crucial competition, slated for June 21st and 22nd at the Labourdonnais Sports Club in Mauritius, serves as a gateway to the prestigious World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series. Captain Kitto Oliver will spearhead the Nigerian Stallions, leading a contingent of experienced players and promising newcomers as they embark on their quest for continental supremacy. The team’s journey includes a crucial pre-tournament training camp in London, designed to hone their skills and solidify their strategies before facing the formidable competition in Mauritius.
Paragraph 2: The Stallions’ Composition: A Blend of Experience and Emerging Talent
The Nigerian squad represents a dynamic mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, carefully selected to form a cohesive and competitive unit. Joining Captain Oliver are established players like Kolade Adedoyin, Gabriel John Etim, and Matthew Ilube, who bring their experience and tactical prowess to the forefront. Complementing this core are promising additions such as Joshua Addams, Tuoyo Anthony Egodo, Oghenesuvwe Obano, Frederick Henry-Ajudua, Richard Adeniyi-Jones, Declan Nwachukwu, Isa Omale, and Akeem Yusuf, injecting fresh energy and enthusiasm into the team. Michael Ogunwole and John Tobi Anthony stand as reserves, ready to step in should the need arise.
Paragraph 3: Navigating the Challenging Landscape of African Rugby Sevens
The Stallions face a demanding challenge in Mauritius, where they will compete against eleven of Africa’s elite rugby sevens nations. The tournament features powerhouses like South Africa, Kenya, and Uganda, along with formidable contenders such as Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Tunisia, Zambia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and the host nation, Mauritius. Each match promises intense competition and will test the Stallions’ mettle as they strive to emerge victorious. Securing the championship title carries the ultimate reward: qualification for the 2025 World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series, a significant step towards global recognition.
Paragraph 4: Pool B Battleground: A Crucible for the Stallions
Nigeria has been drawn into Pool B, a challenging group that includes South Africa, Burkina Faso, and Zambia. The Stallions’ campaign begins with a daunting clash against the formidable South African side, scheduled for 7:06 am WAT on Saturday, June 21st. Following this opening encounter, they will face Burkina Faso at 9:28 am and Zambia at 12:12 pm. Each match in this group stage carries immense significance, as the Stallions must perform at their peak to secure a favorable position for the knockout rounds.
Paragraph 5: Forging a Winning Formula: Intensive Preparation and Strategic Approach
Head coach Steve Lewis, supported by team manager Azeez Ladipo and team medic Dr. Fikunola Orafidiya, has orchestrated a rigorous two-month training program to prepare the Stallions for the challenges ahead. This comprehensive preparation has included participation in the Abeokuta Cup 7s in Nigeria, providing valuable competitive experience on home soil. Furthermore, the team embarked on a series of tournaments in the United Kingdom, including the London Floodlit 7s, Summer Socials, and Manor 7s, exposing them to diverse playing styles and raising their level of play.
Paragraph 6: Confidence and Gratitude: The Stallions’ Mindset and the NRFF’s Appreciation
Coach Lewis has expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness and highlighted the players’ commitment and growth throughout the training period. The return of Declan Nwachukwu and Kolade Adedoyin from injury adds further strength to the squad, while the injection of new talent brings a renewed sense of energy and possibility. The NRFF has expressed its gratitude to the National Sports Commission, partners, and supporters for their unwavering commitment to the development of rugby in Nigeria. The federation remains steadfast in its mission to elevate Nigerian rugby on both the continental and global stages, with the 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Tournament serving as a crucial stepping stone towards achieving these ambitions.
