Nigeria to warm up for IRL World Series 2025 with Ghana series

As their preparations intensify for the IRL Women’s Rugby League World Series in Canada this October, Nigeria will host Ghana in a three-game senior international series in Lagos for world ranking points.

This will be the fourth meeting between the nations with Nigeria undefeated so far although each encounter has become more competitive, reflecting the rapid growth of women’s rugby league in the region.

The series will be staged at two landmark venues, Alaro City – main sponsor and long-term partner of Nigeria Rugby League – who are constructing a purpose-built rugby league pitch that will also serve as Nigeria’s World Series training camp – and Rugby School Nigeria, located in Eko Atlantic City, Lagos.

Nigeria’s build-up to the World Series is anchored in a high-performance camp in Lagos.

“These three weeks of preparation in Nigeria are absolutely vital,” said Nigeria women’s head coach, Bolu Fagboran. “It will allow us to train at elite intensity, build team cohesion, and ensure every player is ready to compete on the world stage in Canada. This is more than just three games — it’s a statement about the potential of African women in rugby league. Playing against Ghana gives us the right kind of test before we face the world’s best.”

Nigeria’s preparations are further boosted by assistant coach Luke Shearman traveling from Australia together with two Australian-based Nigerian players.

“It’s an honour to be part of Nigeria’s journey on the global stage,” noted Shearman. “Coming to Lagos with our players is not only about preparing for Canada, but also about contributing to the growth of rugby league in Africa. The talent here is incredible, and I believe Nigeria has the potential to surprise the world.”

Though Nigeria enters the series as favourites, Ghana’s growth has seen increasing female participation, improved technical training, and a stronger grassroots foundation. The Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG) view the series as another building block in its long-term strategy to elevate the women’s game.

Riddick Alibah, head coach of the Ghana women’s team, commented: “We’re thrilled to take on Nigeria again. Our players have been working hard, and this series gives them the platform to showcase their talent. It’s also a powerful opportunity to grow the game and inspire the next generation of Ghanaian girls to dream big in rugby league.”

Nigeria v Ghana

• October 4 - Rugby School Nigeria
• October 7 - Alaro City
• October 11- Alaro City