The Nigeria United Kingdom Sports Award (NUKSA) fundraiser and gala will celebrate two key figures in Nigerian rugby—Dr. Ademola Are, President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), and Azeez Ladipo, the Federation’s General Manager.
Dr. Are will be honoured for his remarkable contributions to sports development in Nigeria. A former national hockey player, he rose through the ranks of the National Sports Commission to become Director of Sports, Grassroots Development, where he played a pivotal role in coordinating the National Youth Games and attracting key partners to support youth sports initiatives.
Ladipo, a former captain of the national rugby team, will be recognised as an outstanding rugby ambassador. He has represented Nigeria in numerous international competitions and has been instrumental in advancing rugby’s growth locally and globally. His advocacy for referee and coach development, grassroots expansion, and increased women’s participation has positioned him as a driving force in the sport’s transformation.
Reacting to the recognition, Dr. Are expressed surprise and gratitude: “I am really shocked by this recognition, but I appreciate it. The work I have done over the years, and continue to do, is for the development of sports and the community. This award will motivate me to keep going.”
For his part, Ladipo reiterated his passion for rugby: “Nigeria has what it takes to be ranked alongside South Africa, Namibia, and Kenya. Perhaps this passion is what people have noticed, and I am truly appreciative of this honour.”
The awards gala in London is expected to attract leading figures in Nigerian and international sports.
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