Re-elected president of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), Dr. Ademola Are, has promised a new era of accountability, structure, and grassroots revival, declaring that his second term “will not be business as usual.”
Dr. Are secured an emphatic victory after sweeping all 13 available votes during the federation’s elective congress held in Abuja, earning the mandate to continue steering the body for another term.
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His re-election also saw Iyorhe Grace emerge as Vice President with 11 votes, defeating Mrs. Chinonye Daphey Aliyu, who polled just one.
In his acceptance remarks, the NRFF president expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their confidence, while acknowledging that the task ahead is even more challenging.
“This victory is not for me but for the development of rugby in Nigeria,” he said. “We are determined to take the game to every corner of the country, nurture young talent, and create sustainable pathways for both male and female players.”
Dr. Are outlined his administration’s renewed focus on grassroots development through school programmes, inter-state competitions, and local coaching clinics. He also revealed plans to attract private sector sponsorship to complement government funding, stressing that proper financial management and accountability will be at the heart of his leadership.
“Rugby deserves its rightful place among Nigeria’s fast-growing sports,” he added. “We will not only improve our domestic leagues but also ensure that our national teams — the Black Stallions and the Lady Stallions — are well-prepared for continental competitions.”
Sports analysts have praised Are’s pragmatic leadership style, noting that his first term saw improvements in structure and international exposure for players.
With his re-election now confirmed, Dr. Are has vowed to build on that momentum and ensure rugby becomes one of Nigeria’s most inclusive and competitive sports within the next four years.
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