In a groundbreaking initiative to inspire and nurture the next generation of female football talents in Nigeria, the Aisha Falode Girls Play Forward programme will debut on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at the iconic Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, as part of activities to mark Children’s Day.
With the theme “We Are Tomorrow”, the initiative is designed for girls aged 5 to 10 years, blending football, fun, and education in an engaging environment aimed at introducing young girls to the transformative power of sport.
Aisha Falode, respected football administrator , executive board member of the Nigeria Football Federation, women’s football advocate and former Chairperson of the Nigerian Women Football League emphasized the significance of this initiative for Edo State and Nigeria at large.
“Edo State has always been a breeding ground for Nigerian athletes who have excelled nationally and internationally. This state is known for discipline, performance, and results. With the success of Edo Queens in the women’s league, it is time we start introducing our younger girls to the beautiful game and the endless opportunities within it,” she said.
Falode noted the growing global attention and investment in women’s football, referencing FIFA’s deliberate strides in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the sport’s ecosystem.
“There are immense opportunities now for women in football, not just as players, but as coaches, referees, administrators, and leaders. The best time to start grooming our girls is now, while their minds are young, creative, and open,” she added.
The Girls Play Forward event promises to be more than just a football match. It’s a community-driven initiative that combines playful and educative activities for children and their families.
Side attractions include a bouncing castle, ice cream, popcorn, and other fun games, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere at the stadium.
Falode also called on mothers and guardians to actively participate in the programme:
“This is not just about football; it’s about leadership, discipline, fair play, cooperation, self-confidence, and effective communication. We’re offering our girls a pathway to personal development through sport, and I’m urging every mother to bring their daughters to experience this.”
The programme will run from 9:00 AM till early afternoon, and is open to all young girls within the age range.
This year’s edition is expected to lay the foundation for what will become an annual tradition, with plans to expand and accommodate more young girls in subsequent editions.
“You don’t know what’s possible until you try. Our girls are the future, and with initiatives like this, we are helping them believe in their own power and potential to achieve greatness,” Falode concluded.
Event Details:
Title: Aisha Falode Girls Play Forward
Theme: We Are Tomorrow
Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 (Children’s Day)
Time: 9:00 AM
Venue: Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City
Age Group: Girls aged 5 – 10 years
