The Nigerian Rugby League Association's (NRLA) application for affiliate membership is set to be presented at next month’s IRL Annual Congress with a recommendation to "elevate" the country’s status.

If approved, Nigeria will be eligible to enter the Rugby League World Cup qualifiers.

It is understood the application has already been backed by the Rugby League European Federation (RLEF) and was reviewed by IRL at its recent Board meeting.

Remond Safi, RLEF’s regional manager for the Middle East Africa (MEA) region, said they were seeing "progressive results from the growth" in Nigeria.

"Nigeria will be the first country in Africa to meet and become an Affiliate Member under the new criteria,” said Safi.

Abbey Olawale-Cole, chairman of the NRLA, said: "This certainly will aid the region to meet its objectives on the road map to a MEA confederation.

"Without a lot of hard work and personal sacrifices from the Board of directors and trustees, and commitment from the players, referees and other stakeholders, the NRLA wouldn’t be in this position, so thanks to all who made this dream a reality.

"We are committed to the sustainable development of rugby league in Nigeria, growing our youth and women talent pool, ensuring that the grassroots gets the right level of engagement and support, so as to ensure we are on a constant path to growth."