“Let Her Play” initiative empower girls through football, uncovers talents in Ajegunle
At the iconic Maracana Stadium, the final whistle of a 10-week football development programme for girls did more than signal the end of a training cycle—it marked the beginning of
At the iconic Maracana Stadium, the final whistle of a 10-week football development programme for girls did more than signal the end of a training cycle—it marked the beginning of new dreams, fresh opportunities, and a gradual cultural shift in how the girl child is perceived in sports.
The initiative, themed “Let Her Play,” brought together nearly 200 girls at inception, a number that was later streamlined through rigorous training sessions to 30 standout participants now poised for the next stage of development. Organised by the Ajeromi - Ifelodun Sports Council, the programme focused on grassroots talent discovery, technical development, and social reorientation.
Speaking at the event, the Director General of the council and coordinator of the project, McAnthony Anaelechukwu, described the initiative as both a football project and a social intervention.
“In our clime, people don’t believe the girl child can play football. But we are here to bring girls together, teach them the basics and see how we can tap raw talents in them and nurture them to state and national prominence,” he said.
According to him, the programme began with about 200 participants, which reduced to 180 and eventually 150 before the final selection of 30 players currently on display. However, he emphasized inclusivity remains a key pillar, noting that even those not selected will continue to receive training support.
The project is far from over, Anaelechukwu revealed that training will continue for the selected players twice weekly, alongside a more intensive one-month camping programme scheduled for August. The long-term vision, he added, is to groom players capable of representing Lagos State at youth competitions and, ultimately, Nigeria at international levels, including the U-17 category.
“There are already plans to integrate some of these girls into youth games. We are seeing the next U-17 players here,” he stated confidently.
The impact of the programme has also begun to attract institutional attention. Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Dotun Coker, expressed satisfaction with the quality of talent discovered.
“The turnout has been very impressive and we’ve been able to unearth new talents. About eight or nine players will be invited to Team Lagos in preparation for the National Youth Games, and at least three of them have strong chances of making the final squad,” he disclosed.
Beyond talent identification, the programme is gradually dismantling long-held societal reservations about girls playing football. For many parents, initial skepticism has given way to pride and support.
One such parent, Aladetan Stephen, recounted how he initially resisted his twin granddaughters’ participation.
“At first, I discouraged them. One even had to sneak out to join. But when I came here and saw what was happening, I changed my mind. Now, I like the way they play,” he admitted.
His aspirations have also evolved, now hoping to see them rise through the ranks to represent Nigeria’s women’s national team, the Super Falcons.
On the pitch, the girls displayed not just enthusiasm but growing tactical awareness and technical ability. For players like Esther Dike, the programme represents a stepping stone to bigger dreams.
“They are training us and selecting players that will go to camp. I see myself playing for the Super Falcons,” she said, adding that she also dreams of playing for FC Barcelona Femení.
Coaches involved in the programme also highlighted the visible transformation among the participants. One of the trainers, Coach Asake, noted that the girls have shown remarkable improvement over the weeks.
“The development has been impressive. Many of them came in with little or no understanding of the game, but now you can see better positioning, improved ball control, and confidence. With consistency, some of these girls can compete at very high levels,” he said.
