Nigeria Rugby Players Set for UK Training Ahead of World Series

Two of Nigeria’s brightest women’s rugby league talents, Rachel Iliya and Blessing Aladeyelu, have been offered opportunities to train with top English clubs in preparation for the Women’s Rugby League World Series in Canada this October.

This was contained in a statement made available to PUNCH Online by the Nigeria Rugby League on Friday.

Both players are part of Nigeria’s women’s national team, which will face tough opposition, including Ireland, Canada, and Fiji, in a historic competition where the winner qualifies for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in Australia.

Iliya, who plays locally for Eko Trinity, has emerged as the top try scorer in the Nigeria Women’s Rugby League.

Her speed and finishing ability caught the attention of scouts, and she will now train with the Bradford Bulls women’s side as part of her development.

Meanwhile, Aladeyelu, who represents the Lagos Bulls, is recognised for her strength and versatility.

She has not only excelled in rugby league but also represented Nigeria in flag football at the African Championships, an NFL-affiliated competition. She has now been invited to train with Wakefield Trinity’s women’s team.

Both players’ domestic clubs are linked with opposite UK sides – Iliya’s Eko Trinity are partnered with Wakefield, while Aladeyelu’s Lagos Bulls are partnered with Bradford.

Nigerian coach, Bolu Fagborun, has said the focus of their UK stint will be intensive training rather than immediate playing contracts. The goal is to sharpen their skills, gain exposure to professional environments, and prepare physically and mentally for the World Series.

The statement partly read, “Rachel Iliya and Blessing Aladeyelu are proof that Nigerian women’s rugby league can produce world-class talent.

“Their training opportunities in England are not just about individual growth, but about ensuring Nigeria is ready to compete against established nations like Ireland in the World Series.”

Source: The Punch