By
Princewill Oviesan ( Deduke)
From pmc360 Media
The 10th edition of SheFootball — the flagship girls’ football and empowerment initiative founded by former Nigeria international Ayisat Yusuf — is set to take place on January 3, 2026, in Aradagun, Badagry, Lagos State. This milestone edition marks a decade of dedication to the growth of grassroots girls’ football, empowerment, and mentorship across communities in Nigeria.
About the Initiative
SheFootball is an annual program organised by the Ayisat Yusuf Foundation, aimed at using football as a platform not just for athletic development, but for education, personal growth, leadership, and self-belief among young girls. Over the past decade, the event has grown from a small grassroots gathering into a celebrated platform that nurtures talent and prepares participants for opportunities both on and off the pitch.
Date: January 3, 2026
Venue: Anglican Primary School, Ilado, Aradagun, Badagry, Lagos
Time: Seminar begins at 8:00 AM; football matches kick off by 9:00 AM
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The programme opens with a motivational seminar designed to inspire participants and equip them with mindset tools, life skills, and knowledge about career pathways related to sport and education. The seminar emphasises leadership, discipline, teamwork, goal setting, and the importance of academic success alongside athletic pursuits.
After the seminar, competitive football matches will take place, featuring girls from grassroots teams in Lagos and surrounding communities. The tournament-style games provide a fun and competitive environment where young players can showcase their skills, passion, and teamwork.
Alongside the matches, organisers will facilitate structured mentorship sessions involving top professionals from within and beyond football. These mentors will speak to participants about career development, professional conduct, goal achievement, and opportunities in sports — bridging the gap between grassroots potential and professional aspiration.
In keeping with SheFootball’s tradition, participating teams will receive official club jerseys and essential football equipment. Ayisat Yusuf and her team will also distribute football boots and training kits to selected girls, ensuring that talented players have the tools they need to continue training and developing.
In celebrating its tenth year, the SheFootball initiative reaffirms its core belief that football transcends gender and serves as a powerful tool for social change. Ayisat Yusuf’s vision is rooted in her own journey — having faced barriers and limited structured support during her professional playing days — and she uses this platform to open doors and expand horizons for the next generation of female footballers.
Yusuf has also hinted at a major summer programme in 2026, which will bring top European football agents to Nigeria, further expanding exposure and scouting opportunities for standout talents emerging from SheFootball.
The SheFootball programme has become more than just a football event — it’s a celebration of confidence, resilience, opportunity, and empowerment for girls at the grassroots level. By combining sport with mentorship, educational guidance, and resource support, the initiative continues to nurture not only better athletes but well-rounded young leaders ready to pursue their dreams.
