Super Falcons forward, Asisat Oshoala, has reaffirmed her commitment to empowering the next generation of Nigerian girls through her academy.
In a statement, Oshoala said when she started the academy with the support of Nike and Women Win, it was not just about creating a place to train the next generation of female footballers to develop their skills, but was to equip the girls to build their future via education and vocational skills.
She said: “Looking back at our second year, I’m filled with pride. We’ve created a structured programme that goes beyond the pitch. We’re not just teaching football; we’re providing life skills education, creating a safe space, and fostering a sense of community.
“We have seen girls go from just playing on the streets of Lagos to representing Nigeria at international tournaments, including the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup! That’s the kind of change that goes
“We had five players who got scholarships, and now they’re professionals in fields like fashion design and hairdressing. Football can open doors, but it’s crucial to equip these young women with options and skills that set them up for life, whether or not they continue to play,” she said.
According to her, the academy has also been working hard to reach more girls through its community outreach events.
She said she dreams that the academy can be a model for others who want to empower girls in Nigeria and beyond.
“Imagine if we could replicate this holistic approach in other communities, in other sports, in other sectors!, We are calling for support, whether it is through donations, sponsorships, or in-kind contributions, your support can directly impact the lives of these girls,” she added.
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
