The 2023 season of men’s, women’s and youth competition is set to kick off in Nigeria in May, with a new sponsor backing the leagues. The NRLA has signed a two-year partnership with Healing Blends Global, a leading organic supplements company.

The Championship will be split into two conferences, with Eko Trinity, Lagos Haven, Lagos Rhinos and R2Finesses 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.

Abiodun Olawale Cole, chair of Nigeria Rugby League, said: “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.”

“Our mission at Healing Blends Global is to help, heal and inspire as many as we can in every way,” commented their CEO, Dr Charlie Ware. “The mission and ethos of rugby league aligns with ours, not only through the development of professional athletes but to help develop and inspire younger generations of boys and girls to pick up the sport, creating a pathway to a brighter future for them. We are thrilled to be a part of this exciting historical moment for Nigeria Rugby League. We are committed to see Nigeria excel in all areas including performance on the pitch and healing of its population of chronic illness.”