Super Falcons forward, Asisat Oshoala, and a board member of the Nigeria Football Federation, Aisha Falode, are calling on both private and public sector stakeholders to increase investment in the development of women’s football in Nigeria.
The current African football champion and former head of the Nigeria Women’s Football League issued this plea at the culmination of the eighth edition of the Football4Girls tournament, an annual event initiated by the footballer.
Commencing in 2015 after its inception in 2014, Oshoala’s tournament has seen the emergence of Super Falcons players such as Rasheedat Ajibade and Gift Monday.
“Female football is getting better every year; the awareness is there. So, it will be awesome for my teammates, friends and everyone who would love to invest in football to look at the women’s side as well. It will encourage a lot of kids and create opportunities for them,” Oshoala said.
NFF board member Falode also commended the quality of football during the tournament and expressed hope in the future of the women’s game.
“You can see the quality of football and one of the players in the academy is already in the U-17 team. I see so many qualities, not only in the Oshoala academy, but in the other teams that played here as well. That is to tell you that the future of women’s football in Nigeria is endless. It is great.”
The ex-NWFL leader also commended Oshoala for her efforts in giving back to the younger generation.
“This is what we will continue to preach, when you are given so much, you must give back. Oshoala is giving back in a way that is unique, in a way that is empowering, meaningful and unusual. And you will have many girls who will aspire to be like her for what she’s done with football in Africa, in the world, it’s amazing. She has become an asset, not only to Nigeria but Africa,” Falode added.