By Awhanbe Sunday Ayisat Yusuf-Armoire, a former football star and Olympian, has inaugurated a female football academy in Iworo, Badagry, L...
By Awhanbe Sunday
Ayisat Yusuf-Armoire, a former football star and Olympian, has inaugurated a female football academy in Iworo, Badagry, Lagos State. The initiative aims to identify, nurture, train, and promote female football talent across Nigeria.
According to News Peddler, the academy, which features a hostel for players, was launched alongside a gym facility on Sunday, January 5, 2025.
Speaking at the event, Ayisat emphasized that the project is part of her commitment to empowering women and the girl child. She disclosed that the initiative was funded solely through her personal efforts and expressed her willingness to collaborate with partners and supporters to expand its reach.
"Today is the most memorable day of my life," Ayisat said. "This project was achieved solely through my efforts. I couldn't secure support or funding from anyone, but I remain hopeful that it will grow. This is about supporting young girls and women, using football as a tool to take them off the streets and help them realize their dreams. Many of these girls have aspirations; they just need support and motivation."
She highlighted the challenges of gender inequality in sports, particularly in Nigeria, and underscored her vision of community development through the initiative.
"This is not just about football or girls alone; it’s about the community. I want these girls to believe in themselves and see us as role models, leaving a legacy of positivity and empowerment. As a leader, I want to be remembered for tangible contributions to development. It’s not enough to be a celebrity; touching lives and making an impact is what truly matters," she added.
Ayisat also expressed her desire to help the girls achieve their dreams of becoming successful players while fostering rural development in Badagry.
International dignitaries present at the event praised her efforts. FIFA referee Sarah Kelly from Austria stated, "Ayisat has done so much for the community and the girls, inspiring them to follow in her footsteps."
Hans Clemo from Switzerland remarked, "I am very happy with what Ayisat has done for the youth in Nigeria. Many former players forget their roots, but Ayisat’s commitment to her community is truly commendable."
The academy is poised to become a beacon of hope for aspiring female footballers in Nigeria, contributing to the development of sports and female empowerment in the region.
A welcome development to Badagry
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