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The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City will come alive with the laughter, energy, and dreams of young girls, as the much-anticipated “Girls Play Forward” event kicks off at 9am on May 27th, Spearheaded by the dynamic and respected football administrator, Aisha Falode, this special program promises a day of football, fun, and inspiration for girls between the ages of 5 and 10.
At its heart, Girls Play Forward is more than just a football event. It is a vision, a movement, and a declaration that “We Are Tomorrow”, a powerful message reminding young girls that they have a place in the beautiful game and that the future of women’s football in Nigeria rests securely in their hands.
Aisha Falode, a pioneering figure in Nigerian sports administration, has long been a vocal advocate for women’s football. Having served as the Chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) and currently sitting as an Executive Board Member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Falode’s dedication to advancing the women’s game is unwavering. Through initiatives like Girls Play Forward, she seeks to bridge the gap between today’s stars and tomorrow’s champions, offering young girls the opportunity to dream, play, and thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
“Football has given many of us a voice and a platform. It’s time to open those same doors for our daughters. Girls Play Forward is about planting those early seeds, so these young girls grow up knowing they belong on the pitch, in the boardrooms, and anywhere they choose to be,” says Falode.
The event is designed to introduce football to young girls in a way that celebrates friendship, teamwork, and confidence-building. Beyond the matches and training sessions, the day will feature interactive fun activities, mentorship opportunities, and motivational talks aimed at nurturing both the athletic and personal development of each participant.
The choice of Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, a historic venue that has hosted countless iconic football moments, serves as the perfect backdrop for this important gathering. It stands as a symbol of how far women’s football has come in Nigeria and a reminder of the possibilities that await the next generation.
As Nigeria continues to shine on the international women’s football stage, with trailblazers like Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Osinachi Ohale On making headlines, initiatives like Girls Play Forward ensure that the pipeline of talent and passion remains strong. It’s a commitment to community, growth, and the unshakable belief that the future is female.
The event is open to girls aged 5-10, and participation is free. Parents, schools, and guardians are encouraged to register their wards for a day that promises memories, friendships, and the first steps toward greatness.
Girls Play Forward is not just a day on the calendar, it’s the start of a movement. A movement where young Nigerian girls proudly lace up their boots, take to the pitch, and confidently declare, “We Are Tomorrow.”
