NRFF lists debutants in Nigeria’s squad for Africa Cup Sevens

Nigeria’s Rugby Sevens head coach, Steve Lewis, has unveiled his squad for the forthcoming Africa Cup Sevens Tournament billed to hold in Mauritius from June 26 to July 8.

There are significant changes from the usual national team squad as co-captains, Declan Nwachukwu (centre) and Olukolade Awobowale (winger) are missing for the group due to injury. Former captain Onoru Jatto is also notably absent from the list.

In the squad are Akpabio Samuel, Dodo Boluwatife, Sam Esukuloh, John Daniel, Richard Adeniyi-Jones, Macaulay Ogheneloyeme, Aniebonam David, Odunlami Oluwadara, Ilube Matthew, Henry-Ajudua Frederick and Etim Gabriel.

Others are Obano Oghenesuvwe, Osereme Kitto, Oliver Lewis and Anthony John-Oluwatobiloba.

“This is an exciting new squad for Nigeria’s 7s, with seven debutants eager to make a name for themselves in Mauritius against the best teams in Africa,” Coach Lewis said.

“We want to finish with strong momentum to help us prepare for the next season,” stated Nigeria Rugby President, Dr Ademola Are.

The Stallions Sevens will compete in Pool A against Kenya, Madagascar and host team, Mauritius.

In Pool B are Uganda, Burkina Faso, Tunisia, and Côte d’Ivoire, while Pool C features Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, and Algeria.