The streets of Ajegunle are set to come alive with renewed purpose as a bold grassroots football initiative, “Let Her Play,” prepares to kick off with a clear mission—empowering young girls and reshaping the future of women’s football in Nigeria.
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Unveiled in Ajegunle, Lagos, the 10-week programme is targeted at girls under the age of 14 and will run from February 3 to April 11, 2026, at the iconic New Maracana Stadium, Tolu.
Training sessions will be held every Saturday from 9:00am to 10:30am, utilising the venue’s eight seven-aside pitches to create a structured, safe and enjoyable learning environment.
The initiative is expected to attract over 250 girls, many of whom will be experiencing organised football for the first time.
At the end of the programme, 30 outstanding participants will be selected for further empowerment and development, providing a clear pathway for talent identification and long-term growth.
Speaking with Sports247 the programme, Director General of Sports, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Mark Anthony, described Let Her Play as a landmark project for women’s football development in the country.
“Let Her Play is more than just a football programme; it is a statement of intent,” Mark Anthony said.
“We are creating opportunities for young girls in Ajegunle to dream, to compete and to believe in themselves.
This initiative will take women’s football development to a new level in Nigeria by starting from the grassroots and building confidence, discipline and character through sport.”
The programme has been carefully structured to ensure progressive learning and holistic development.
The opening weeks will focus on building strong foundations, followed by skill development and fitness enhancement.
As the programme progresses, participants will be introduced to game awareness and tactical understanding, before rounding off with final preparations, a mini tournament and celebratory activities.
Throughout the 10-week period, participants will benefit from the guidance of local coaches and mentors, engaging in fun-based drills, small-sided matches and regular training sessions lasting between 60 and 90 minutes.
While football skills are central, equal emphasis will be placed on teamwork, discipline and self-confidence.
The expected impact of Let Her Play extends far beyond selecting top performers.
Organisers aim to improve physical fitness and self-belief among all participants while strengthening community involvement in girls’ sports development.
By providing a safe, inclusive and supportive environment, the programme seeks to challenge long-standing barriers to female participation in football.
With strong backing from the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government and a clear development framework,
Let Her Play represents a significant step toward nurturing the next generation of female footballers—starting from Ajegunle and with the potential to inspire similar initiatives across Nigeria.
