BY SUNDAY AKINTOYE
The Nigeria Rugby League Association NRLA has concluded plan to submit its bid to host 2025 Rugby World Series.
The association would submit the bid to the International Rugby League Federation by next week Wednesday.
In his press statement, General Manager of NRLA, Isah Lawal-Saulawa stated that following the impressive performance of female national rugby league team known as Green Falcons at the just concluded qualifying match against Kenya in Women’s 2025 World Series, the country stands the chance to host the World Series comes next year
After playing Kenya two matches in Nairobi, Nigeria booked a place in the next year World Series.
“Having qualified to this stage, Nigeria now can bid to host the 2025 World Series.We are ready to take the next step and bring the World Series home.
“Securing the bid would be a monumental achievement not just for rugby but for the Nigeria’s international sporting reputation. We extend our gratitude to our sponsors for their unwavering support in the growth of Rugby League in Nigeria,”the statement stated.
Lawal-Saulawa however reinstated that the association would submit the bid next week but called on the Ministry of Sports Development to give them necessary support to achieve the hosting right.
“We need federal backing to win the this bidding and they should also provide the Green Falcons with top-tier facilities, and ensure they compete at their best at the World Series.We can’t just host for fun of it, but we want to host and qualify for the rugby World Cup in 2026,” he said.
The NRLA called on all Nigerians to join in celebrating this achievement and to rally behind the bid to host the 2025 World Series, a milestone event that will showcase Nigeria’s sporting talents to the world.
Meanwhile NRLA Welcomed victorious Green Falcons for their job well done in Kenya and saluted them following their triumphant victory against Kenya to win the Middle East and African Championship.
The team arrived home recently to a well-deserved celebration parade, with a band of supporters accompanying them as they returned with the championship trophy in hand.
The Green Falcons have made history, becoming the first nation from the Middle East and African (MEA) region to qualify for the 2025 IRL World Series.
Their success on the international stage sets a new standard for Nigerian sports and paves the way for even greater accomplishments.
Speaking on this momentous occasion,Lawal-Saulawa remarked, “We are immensely proud of the Green Falcons. They have shown determination, passion, and skill in their historic win against Kenya.
“As the first nation to represent the MEA region at the World Series, they have placed Nigeria at the center of the rugby league world. This win is one to be celebrated across the country.”he concluded.