Life University Club Rugby back row, Frederick Henry-Ajudua has pledged his international allegiance to the country of his parents, Nigeria, Sportsinglife.ng reports.
Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, who made the announcement in a series of tweets via its official Twitter account on Monday, said the former NFL National Football League (NFL) star will be available for selection for the country’s national team, Black Stallions.
“Nigeria’s Frederick Henry-Ajudua @fredogamo of @lifeuclubrugby has confirmed availability to play for Nigeria and will be available for selection for the Black Stallions.
“Fred is a crossover Athlete. A defensive line-man for Jacksonville Jaguar of the NFL and Montreal Aouttes of the CFL. Fred was a 1st Team All American, 1st Team All MEAC Defensive end, and winner of the Defensive Player of the week after a brilliant performance against Bethune Cookman University. He’s a 3 time MEAC Conference champion.
“With Rugby Union, he played in the HBCU National Championship and a 2019 D1 Men’s Rugby National Championship and a 2019 D1 Men’s Rugby National Champion.
“Welcome!!! 🇳🇬🇳🇬🏉🏉,” NRFF tweeted.
The 27-year-old attended King’s College in Nigeria and then Hillside New Tech after he travelled to the U.S. at age 16.
Henry-Ajudua however said he was inspired to pledge his allegiance to Nigeria by the the country senior national football team, Super Eagles.
“When I was 5 years old I watched the Super Eagles go represent Nigeria in big tournaments, so I promised myself that I want to represent my country and bring light and stardom to my country.
“I remember when me and my bro Walter used to talk about it and Now God has blessed me to be able to represent my country not in soccer but in rugby.
“First of I want to thank life men’s rugby club and coach Bradford for always pushing me to be the best and I want to thank my family and friends for always believing in me and letting me know I am the best and lastly I want to thank Nigerian Rugby Football Federation for this opportunity to live my dream,” the former defensive line-man for Jacksonville Jaguars of the NFL posted on his Instagram account.