In a bold move that unites sports, gender empowerment, and national pride, Alaro City, Nigeria’s most investor-friendly free zone, has announced its official sponsorship of the Nigerian Rugby League Association (NRLA) and the Nigerian Women’s Rugby Team, popularly known as the Green Falcons.
This partnership comes at a historic time, as Nigeria’s women’s team recently qualified for the 2025 Rugby League World Cup, becoming the first African team ever to reach that level. The achievement marks a turning point for African women in sport and underscores Nigeria’s growing presence on the global rugby map.
Speaking on the partnership, Yomi Ademola, Managing Director of Alaro City, said: “Qualifying for the Rugby League World Cup – the first time an African team has done so – is an extraordinary milestone for Nigeria. This is a triumph of determination and talent in a field where gender barriers are being overcome. By supporting the team, we aim to foster a culture of excellence and resilience that mirrors the values we uphold in Alaro City.”
The move comes amid global efforts to boost women’s participation in rugby. According to the International Rugby Board (IRB), women make up just 28% of registered players worldwide, with even lower figures across Africa. Yet, participation is rising rapidly, with women’s rugby becoming one of the fastest-growing sports globally.
Alaro City’s sponsorship seeks to bridge that gap, investing in infrastructure, training, and visibility to give African athletes a stronger foothold internationally. The company’s involvement also highlights how Nigerian corporations are increasingly taking the lead in supporting homegrown sports talent.
Set within the Lekki Free Zone, Alaro City is a 2,000-hectare urban development equipped with world-class infrastructure, including an independent power plant, industrial-grade roads, and ICT facilities. The city’s developer, Rendeavour, is Africa’s largest city builder, known for transforming emerging economies through sustainable, mixed-use urban design.
