Rugby union in Nigeria


Rugby union in Nigeria is a minor but growing sport. They are currently ranked 70th by World Rugby.

Governing body

The governing body is the Nigerian Rugby Football Federation.

History

Rugby union was first introduced into Nigeria by the British empire. For a number of years the game was dominated by white settlers and expatriates, and to an extent, a number of expatriate oil workers still play there.
A number of Nigerian people have emigrated to the UK, and there is a London Nigerian Rugby Club.

Notable players

A number of notable England players were born or raised in Nigeria, including:
Bright Sodje who formerly played for Wakefield RFC and current England international Maro Itoje are also of Nigerian background.