A significant boost has arrived for Nigerian rugby as three talented Nigerian-heritage players based in New Zealand have been officially named to the national squad. Shondell Akhabue, Annique Oyinlola, and Catherine Akeje will proudly pull on the green and white jersey of the Green Falcons for the upcoming Rugby World Series in Canada this October.
This crucial tournament represents a monumental opportunity for Nigeria’s women’s team. The squad will be significantly strengthened by players who have developed their skills through the elite NRLW pathways in Australia and New Zealand, blending overseas experience with domestic talent.
The Road to the 2026 World Cup
The stakes for the upcoming series could not be higher. Nigeria is scheduled to face a formidable Irish team on October 21 at the Terry Fox Stadium in Brampton, Ontario. The outcome of this match carries immense weight, as the winner will advance to the tournament final on October 26. There, they will compete against the victor of the other semi-final clash between Canada and Fiji.
The ultimate prize is the final available ticket to the prestigious 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Australia and Papua New Guinea. This single qualifier spot has set the stage for an intense and high-pressure competition, with Nigeria firmly in the running for a historic World Cup berth.
Integrating Heritage Talent into the Green Falcons
Head coach Luke Shearman, who is working in collaboration with Bolu Fagborun to build a competitive squad, has expressed his enthusiasm for integrating heritage players. He emphasized that the door remains open for more talent to join the fold, highlighting a strategic approach to team selection focused on strength and growth.
“We have our squad in Nigeria, but if there is anybody who can strengthen the team, we will definitely look at them,” Shearman stated. “It’s a great opportunity for these players to represent Nigeria and, in doing so, help us grow the game both internationally and at home.”
This strategy of blending homegrown players with diaspora talent is already yielding results. The recent moves of Nigerian domestic players Rachel Iliya and Blessing Aladeyelu to professional clubs in England underscore the promising pathways now opening up for Nigerian rugby athletes.
Meet the Newest Green Falcons
The three new additions each bring impressive credentials and deep personal motivation to the team.
Shondell Akhabue
The 23-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having played for the Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers in the highly competitive NSWRL Premiership. Her talent was evident early on, earning her a spot in the NSW Under-18s State of Origin squad in 2019. For Akhabue, representing Nigeria is a deeply cultural and personal ambition. “It would be great to play for Nigeria. It’s my culture and would be a huge honour,” she said.
Annique Oyinlola
At 20 years old, Oyinlola is a rising star who joined the Wests Tigers Harvey Norman Premiership squad this season. Her desire to represent Nigeria is driven by a connection to her family heritage. “My dad is Nigerian and it would mean a lot to represent that side of my family,” she commented, showcasing the powerful familial pull that motivates many heritage athletes.
Catherine Akeje
Unique among the trio, 21-year-old Akeje moved to Australia from Nigeria itself in 2016. She previously played in the Tarsha Gale Cup for the St George Dragons. Her perspective is rooted in a direct connection to her homeland. “This is a chance to inspire other girls in sport and represent Nigeria proudly,” Akeje said, highlighting the inspirational role she hopes to play for young athletes back home.
Building for the Future of Nigerian Rugby
The future of rugby in Nigeria looks increasingly bright. The Nigeria Rugby League Association (NRLA) has secured a pivotal partnership with Alaro City in Lagos. This development includes plans to construct a dedicated rugby league facility capable of hosting international matches, providing a much-needed infrastructure boost for the sport.
In preparation for the World Series, the Green Falcons will undergo a rigorous training camp on home soil. This will be followed by international friendly fixtures against rivals Ghana, serving as a vital tune-up before the team departs for the high-stakes competition in Canada.
This combination of heritage talent, domestic development, and strategic infrastructure investment marks a new and exciting chapter for Nigerian rugby as the Green Falcons prepare to soar on the world stage.
