By Tolulope Oguntimehin 
The Edo State Rugby Association (ESRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to hosting the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation's (NRFF) 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the South South Rugby League in Benin City, Edo State.

Dr. Ademola Are, President of the NRFF, led a delegation to Benin City, where he praised the association for its efforts in promoting rugby and the continuous support they have provided. "We are grateful for the progress you've made in Edo State. Your commitment to developing the game is invaluable, and we truly appreciate your willingness to host the AGM and the South South Rugby League," Dr. Are remarked.

Earlier, ESRA Chairman Comrade Sunny Osayande, a prominent businessman with a strong vision, reiterated the association's eagerness to host the AGM, which will bring together rugby stakeholders from all 36 states of the federation from December 3rd to 5th, 2024, in Benin City.

While welcoming the NRFF delegation, Comrade Osayande commended Dr. Ademola Are for his dedication to unifying the rugby community and assured him of ESRA's ongoing support. "We are pleased with the efforts you're making to grow the sport, and you can count on our full support," Osayande said.

Additionally, the South South Rugby League will be sponsored by vice chairman, Mr Asuen Marcel, with teams arriving on October 7th, matches taking place on the 8th and 9th, and departures scheduled for October 10th. Teams from Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Edo will compete for the zonal title and a spot in the national Super Six finals. This regional league is part of a broader competition held across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones—South West, South South, South East, North Central, North East, and North West. The winners from each region will advance to the national finals.