Nigeria will face Ghana in a three-match senior women’s rugby league series in Lagos as part of preparations for the IRL Women’s Rugby League World Series scheduled for October in Canada.
The series, which carries world ranking points, will be played at two venues. Rugby School Nigeria in Eko Atlantic City will host the opening match on October 4, while Alaro City will stage the remaining two games on October 7 and 11. Alaro City, the main sponsor and long-term partner of Nigeria Rugby League, is building a purpose-built pitch that will also serve as Nigeria’s training base for the World Series.
Nigeria women’s head coach, Bolu Fagboran, described the series as essential to the team’s preparation.
“These three weeks of preparation in Nigeria are absolutely vital,” Fagboran said. “It will allow us to train at elite intensity, build team cohesion, and ensure every player is ready to compete on the world stage in Canada. This is more than just three games — it’s a statement about the potential of African women in rugby league. Playing against Ghana gives us the right kind of test before we face the world’s best.”
The Nigerian squad has been further strengthened by the arrival of assistant coach Luke Shearman from Australia, who traveled with two Australian-based Nigerian players.
“It’s an honour to be part of Nigeria’s journey on the global stage,” Shearman said. “Coming to Lagos with our players is not only about preparing for Canada, but also about contributing to the growth of rugby league in Africa.
The talent here is incredible, and I believe Nigeria has the potential to surprise the world.”
The fixture marks the fourth meeting between the two West African nations. Nigeria has won all previous encounters, though the games have become increasingly competitive as Ghana invests in women’s rugby league development.
Ghana’s head coach, Riddick Alibah, said the series represents a key stage in his team’s progress.
“We’re thrilled to take on Nigeria again. Our players have been working hard, and this series gives them the platform to showcase their talent. It’s also a powerful opportunity to grow the game and inspire the next generation of Ghanaian girls to dream big in rugby league,” Alibah stated.
Both nations see the series as an opportunity to advance the women’s game in West Africa while gaining valuable preparation for international competition.
