The Nigerian Rugby League Association, NRLA is set to kick off the 2023 league season in the month of May.

The season will also see a new partner, Healing Blends Global collaborating with the Association on a two-year partnership deal for the smooth running of the league.

The 2023 Championship will run in two regions with men’s, women’s and youth competition starting in May.

The Championship will be split into two conferences, with Eko Trinity, Lagos Haven, Lagos Rhinos and R2 Finesses playing in the Southern, and Kano Lions, Kano Gazelles, Zazzau Bulls and Zaria Bees facing off in the Northern.

The respective winners of each conference will meet in the Healing Blends Grand Final on 12 August.

Chairman of Nigeria Rugby League, Abiodun Olawale Cole stated that “We are thrilled to kick off the 2023 season and delighted to announce our new two-year partnership with Healing Blends. Their generous support will enable us to fund our men’s, women’s, and youth leagues this year, which is crucial for our application for full-time membership of International Rugby League. “Last year was a fantastic one for us as we retained our Middle East Africa Cup and we are eager to compete for it again in South Africa later this year, and in our quest for qualification for the World Cup in 2025