A school in Nigeria is ready to tackle anything after being gifted Bradford Bulls shirts as well as sporting equipment, sponsored by the University of Bradford.
Ibudo Academy, on the outskirts of Lagos, played host to Nigel Wood, Chairman of Bradford Bulls, Bradford community leader Dr Manoj Joshi MBE and Graham Swain, Bradford community award-winner, accompanied by Lagos political figure and proud old Bradfordian Megha Joshi.
The under 12s and under 16s took to the pitch to show off their impressive rugby league skills to the visitors and Bulls Chairman Nigel said: “It was truly humbling to see so much joy and enthusiasm demonstrated by these young people for whom life chances are so few and far between.
“The facilities were basic and raw, and the players were barefoot but the commitment could not have been surpassed. Seeing how much joy they took from such a small gift brought a tear to my eye.”
Michael Ogunbiyi, Founder of Ibudo Academy said: “We would like to thank Nigel and the team from Bradford who took time to support the kids rugby league games as they played alongside five other schools in the Lagos Rugby League Schools League, run by Ibudo Academy.
“Around 120 kids came out during the day and hugely benefited from the occasion. It was a huge step for grassroots rugby in Lagos, which now has 18 schools participating.
“A big thank you to Bradford Bulls as well as the University of Bradford for making it possible.”
The visit allowed the two organisations to come together to provide sponsorship for the school in Lagos. Nigerian alumni also joined the visit and spoke fondly of their time at the University.
Zahir Irani, Deputy Vice-Chancellor said: “The University of Bradford has a long and proud relationship with Nigeria and is pleased to support grass root level sports activities through our outreach activities.”
