The IRL approved their affiliate member status at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting.

The IRL said both nations have undergone a rigorous process to satisfactorily demonstrate the growth of their organisation and their capacity to deliver rugby league programmes.

NRLA and RLFG become the first two members in the Middle East-Africa (MEA) region to achieve affiliate membership.

The IRL says this further illustrates the progress being made by the sport in the region.

"We were pleased to receive the votes confirming NRLA as an affiliate member of International Rugby League," said Ade Adebisi, NRLA vice-president.

"This is motivating news for all of us at NRLA.

"Our target is to qualify for the World Cup in 2025 and achieve full membership status.

"I would like thank Remond Safi and our entire team for making this a reality."

RLFG general secretary Kareem Captan has also targeted qualification for the 2025 Rugby League World Cup, along with achieving full membership.

"This marks a significant milestone in our journey towards participation in RLWC2025 and obtaining full membership," Captan said.

"It reflects the ardent dedication of our team and players and the gracious and enduring support we have been so fortunate to receive from our sponsors, partners, and stakeholders and we thank them all."

The Annual General Meeting was held virtually, with 35 nations participating.

IRL chair Greg Barclay gave an update on the IRL’s compliance with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), as well as appointments of the first-ever head of judiciary and a match official manager.

Barclay also outlined the work of several advisory groups, including those for  women and girls, classifications, wheelchair rugby league and the laws advisory panel.

An update was also given on the IRL’s re-brand and rolling out of the website and digital members' portal.

"It was great to have so many members attend and participate in the AGM in such trying circumstances," said IRL chief executive Nigel Wood.

"We would like to thank them all and also congratulate our friends in both Nigeria and Ghana on their successful applications to become affiliate members.

"Quite rightly, members focussed on IRL’s response to the problems created by the global pandemic.

"They were satisfied that we have been able to manage the international federation’s affairs prudently to ensure that the impact on our support for members is as limited as possible.

"We are all looking forward to an improved 2021 and a World Cup to remember for the most positive of reasons."