Peace Bassey
Tuesday, May 27, was celebrated across the world with fun and a lot to eat for the children from age 0 to 18, and Nigerians were not exempted. In the heartbeat of the nation was a woman of substance and influence, Aisha Falode, giving to the girl-child what would define the future of football.
The Girls Play Forward initiative program by the Nigeria Football Federation board member has won the accolades of the state’s football Supremo, Fred Newton.
The program saw the gathering of over 70 children aged 5 to 10 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, engaged in football talks, drill, play, painting, eating and other interesting activities.
Lasting over four hours of excitement for the children and mothers present, the chairman rated the event as the “Right Plan for the Future” with an “A” score for its debut.
“This is a one-off and commendable initiative from Madam Aisha Falode and we are proud to be a part of this one for the girl-child.”
“Mama Aisha is a children-loving mother, especially the girl child and the Nigerian women’s football is a big testament to this. This initiative has come to stay and it will become big from next year on with a lot of opportunities to unpack.”
Schools present at the event were handed quality leather footballs as a takeaway to continue giving the children playing time in their respective schools.
It’s inspiring to see initiatives like the Girls Play Forward program making a real impact on young girls in Nigeria. Aisha Falode’s dedication to empowering the girl-child through football is truly commendable. The event at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium sounds like it was both fun and educational, which is a perfect combination for kids. I love how this initiative not only focuses on sports but also includes creative activities like painting. It’s great to hear that schools received footballs to keep the momentum going. Do you think this program could be expanded to other regions or even other countries?
The event was great, it was a fun day for the kids