NRFF Congratulates Rugby Africa’s Herbert Mensah and Mark Alexander on Election to World Rugby Executive Board
The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has extended its congratulations to Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah and Mark Alexander of South Africa for their elections to the World Rugby Executive Board. NRFF President, Dr. Ademola Are, called this achievement a major milestone for African rugby, offering emerging rugby nations a stronger voice and paving the way for the sport’s growth across the continent.
“This is a reward for the dedication and hard work President Herbert Mensah has demonstrated in his short time in office,” Dr. Are stated. “More African countries are now embracing rugby, and this is a tremendous opportunity for emerging rugby nations to grow and have a representative voice.”
Dr. Are also emphasized that this election marks an unprecedented achievement for African rugby. “I am thrilled to see this success under the leadership of someone deeply passionate about developing the game across Africa and having two African representatives on the board is a major milestone, giving us a stronger voice,” he added.
Under Herbert Mensah’s leadership, rugby has gained traction across Africa, with increased participation in both men’s and women’s leagues. Rugby Africa recently hosted the Africa Women’s Sevens tournament in Ghana, where South Africa claimed victory, and additional programs and competitions are planned for next year to boost engagement across the region.
Herbert Mensah secured his seat on the World Rugby Executive Board by winning the regional association election with 21 votes, outpacing Asia Rugby’s Qais Al-Dhalai and Oceania Rugby’s Richard Sapias, who each garnered 15 votes. Meanwhile, Mark Alexander was elected from the High Performance Union (South) with 34 votes.