World Rugby Selects Princess Alban Ugonwaezeh-Agugo for Capgemini University’s International Sports Management Program
World Rugby has proudly announced the selection of Nigerian Princess Alban Ugonwaezeh-Agugo for the prestigious Capgemini Women in Rugby Leadership Programme for 2024 and 2025. This program aims to elevate the visibility of female leaders within the rugby community and accelerate the development of the women’s and girls’ game, particularly as the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 approaches.
Princess Ugonwaezeh-Agugo, 37, hailing from Adazi-Nnukwu in Anaocha LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria, is one of only four individuals selected from Africa and one of 25 chosen globally for this groundbreaking initiative. Alongside her from Africa are Ingrid Sibusisiwe Mangcu from South Africa, Nour Khaled from Tunisia, and Menna Sedky from Egypt.
Participants in the Capgemini Women in Rugby Leadership Programme will benefit from top-tier learning opportunities through Capgemini University. Each scholar will be paired with a mentor appointed by World Rugby as well as a Capgemini coach. Additionally, they will be eligible to apply for a discretionary grant of up to £5,000 to support their development and learning.
Princess Ugonwaezeh-Agugo expressed her excitement, stating, “This is a significant achievement for Nigeria, and it will help inspire other women to reach for the sky. I am really excited about this program because it means so much to me and for the growth of the game in my locality and Nigeria at large. I hope I can bring whatever I learn back home and implement it to foster the development of rugby in the country.”
Earlier this year, Princess Ugonwaezeh-Agugo received a similar scholarship from Rugby Africa to study Sports Management at Lunex University of Luxembourg. This accolade marked the first time a Nigerian was awarded such recognition from Rugby Africa, highlighting her pioneering role in advancing the sport within her country.
Under the leadership of Dr. Ademola Are, the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) is creating new opportunities for Nigerians to embrace rugby and encouraging greater female participation in the sport. The federation’s efforts are paving the way for the next generation of female leaders in rugby, ensuring the sport’s growth and development across Nigeria and beyond.
Princess Ugonwaezeh-Agugo’s selection for this international program not only brings honor to Nigeria but also underscores the country’s potential to produce world-class talent and leaders in the sport of rugby. As she prepares to embark on this journey, the entire nation watches with pride and anticipation, eager to see the positive impact she will make on the global stage and back home.
The Office of the President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation congratulated Princess Ugonwaezeh-Agugo on this remarkable achievement, reaffirming their commitment to supporting her and other aspiring leaders in Nigerian rugby.
