Abubakar Yakubu has been appointed as the acting Technical Director of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF).

According to the NRFF President, Kelechi Mbagwu, the appointment of Yakubu is in line with the federation’s stated goal to improve the development of rugby in Nigeria.

Mbagwu said Yakubu’s experience as a former player for the national team, The Black Stallions, would come in handy in his bid to revamp rugby across the country, including driving up youth participation in the sport.

Mbagwu pledged the support of the NRFF to ensuring the growth of the sport at all levels.

Reacting to his appointment as acting Technical Director, Yakubu, who also doubles as the Coach of Sabon Gari Rugby Club, Zaria, said “the appointment came at the right time. My vision is to upgrade rugby at the grassroots, state and federal levels.”

“The issue of training Coaches and capacity building are parts of my commitment. I will ensure that the rugby league is well organized in terms of logistics and fair officiating,” he added.