Girls Play Sports tournament set to discover new Asisat Oshoala

As part of plans to discover a new generation of talents in Nigeria's women's football, the Ayomidiran Foundation has launched the inaugural "Girls Play Sports" tournament.

The initiative aims to discover and cultivate the talent of young girls, fostering their love for the sport and empowering them through competition.

The Founder of the organisation, Ayo Omidiran, expressed her enthusiasm at the program's launch during a press conference held at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Centre.

"This 'Girls Play Sports' initiative is set up to promote and empower young girls through the sport of football.

"We aim to provide a developmental platform, minimize social vices among young girls, and foster unity across Nigeria," Omidiran declared.

The tournament extends beyond mere competition, aiming to be a catalyst for positive change, "The 'Girls Play Sports' Women's Football Tournament is more than just a tournament; it is a movement," Omidiran explained.

Omidiran further emphasised the tournament's focus on inclusivity, "By involving grassroots teams from both the North and South of Nigeria, we seek to minimize social vices among young girls and promote a spirit of unity and inclusivity through the love of football," she stated.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) enthusiastically endorsed the Girls Play Sports tournament, recognising its alignment with its own vision for women's football development.

Dr. Muhammad Sanusi, the NFF General Secretary, praised the initiative during the press conference.

He pledged the NFF's support and collaboration with the Ayomidiran Foundation for the success of the tournament.

"To us at the NFF, this is a welcome idea. This program will greatly impact the grassroots and help to elevate the standard of women's football in Nigeria," Dr. Sanusi declared.

The inaugural championship will take place from August 30 to September 30, 2024. Following a preliminary round held across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, eight teams will advance to the Northern and Southern playoff finals.