The Francisca Ordega Foundation Football Clinic has kicked off in Makurdi with a strong statement of intent, blending grassroots development with international exposure as young female footballers in Benue State get a rare taste of elite-level training.
Held at the McCarthy Stadium and delivered in collaboration with Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad Ladies Club, the clinic is aimed at identifying and nurturing local talent while opening pathways for young Nigerian players to explore opportunities beyond the domestic scene.
Read Also: AFCON 2025: Chelle Thanks Super Eagles’ Players For Good Results, Targets Continuous Improvement
Super Falcons star and foundation founder, Francisca Ordega, was fully hands-on, leading technical sessions alongside fellow international Ashley Plumptre and a coaching delegation from Al-Ittihad.
The programme targets female players aged 14 to 18, as well as local coaches, equipping them with modern football techniques, tactical awareness, and professional insights drawn from top-level experience.
Beyond the drills and tactics, the clinic also celebrated cultural exchange. Plumptre, who plays for Al-Ittihad and the Super Falcons, drew admiration by immersing herself in local Tiv traditions, joining in the Swange music and dance while dressed in the traditional Tiv A’nger attire—a moment that resonated deeply with participants and spectators alike.
The initiative underscores Ordega’s commitment to giving back and strengthening the foundation of women’s football in Nigeria. With international expertise on the ground and growing interest from global clubs, the Makurdi clinic is poised to leave a lasting legacy, inspiring the next generation of female footballers and accelerating grassroots development in the region.
