The Director-General of the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Sports Council, McAnthony Anaelechukwu, has described the Let Her Play initiative as a game-changing platform capable of transforming women’s football development in Nigeria.
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Anaelechukwu made this assertion at the official kickoff of the Let Her Play programme, a 10-week grassroots football training initiative organised by the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation for secondary school girls in Ajegunle, Lagos.
The programme, which began over the weekend at the iconic Maracana Stadium, is being implemented in partnership with the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Sports Council and is aimed at empowering the girl-child through sports, mentorship, and structured football education.
The opening session attracted a large number of enthusiastic young girls who were introduced to the fundamentals of football by certified female coaches.
The participants displayed energy, passion, and determination, creating an atmosphere of excitement and optimism around the project.
Speaking at the event, Anaelechukwu commended the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation for its commitment to grassroots development, noting that the initiative aligns with efforts to expand opportunities for girls in sports.
“Together with the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, we are determined to change the narrative surrounding the girl-child and the limited opportunities previously available for them to develop and pursue careers as athletes, particularly in football,” he said.
Parents of the participants also praised the initiative. Adekunle Raymond, whose daughter is enrolled in the programme, described it as timely and impactful.
“This programme is very good and important in helping young girls chart a career path towards a better life. I am very grateful to the organisers, especially the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, for giving our children this opportunity,” he said.
The Let Her Play training sessions are expected to continue next Saturday at the Maracana Stadium, with organisers promising sustained learning, fun, and empowerment for girls in the Ajegunle community.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to promote gender inclusion and strengthen the foundation of women’s football in Nigeria through early exposure, quality coaching, and mentorship.
