NRFF names 12 players for Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers

Nigeria Rugby Football

Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), yesterday, unveiled a 12-man Black Stallions’ squad for this month’s Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers scheduled for Mauritius.

Speaking on the list, recently appointed Black Stallions’ coach, Steve Lewis, congratulated the chosen players for being among stars that would re-launch the country into the international arena in Mauritius.

“For this tournament, players have been drawn primarily from the UK-based Nigerian Exiles team, who have been competing regularly against top-class opposition this summer,” he said.

The coach said the NRFF has expressed its plan to re-establish domestic competitions to develop local talents and grow the game, as well as incorporate Nigerian players in the UK, the US or other overseas countries.

“I am confident these men will acquit themselves well and represent Nigeria Rugby proudly,” the coach said, adding, “the team comprises players from UK, U.S. and Nigeria.”

The top three teams at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games qualifiers will qualify to compete in the Africa Cup Sevens in Zimbabwe later in September, the coach said.

The players in the squad are Aniebonam David Kosisochukwu (Wimbledon RFC), Awobowale Olukolade Mobolaji (Stallions RFC), Esiri Aaron, Asher Chinedu (Bournvile RFC), Etim Gabriel John (Barewa RFC, Kano), Goualin Pierre Henri (Old Priorians RFC), Henrry-Ajudua Chukwuyem Frederick (Atlanta Major League Rugby), Ilube Matthew Maurice (Old Priorians RFC), Jatto Onoru-Oyiza (Cowrie RFC, Lagos), Lipede Adenekan Jojoola (Old Colfeians RFC), Nwachukwu Declan Chinedu (Horsham RFC), Odunlami Oluwadara Olufewa (University of Bath RFC) and Onyeahasi Alexander George (Clifton RFC).

The NRFF said Sani Mohammed would serve as team