The ‘Let Her Play’ project has produced 30 budding football talents after a 10-week training programme at the New Maracana Sports Complex, Ajegunle, Lagos State.
In a statement on Tuesday, McAnthony Anaelechukwu, Director-General of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Sports Council, said the project aimed to give girls equal access to football development pathways.
“This initiative was created to bridge the access gap and give young girls opportunities to develop their football talents in a structured environment,” he said.
He said the programme trained 150 girls aged nine to 15, with 30 outstanding participants selected to form the Ajegunle Angels team.
“Out of 150 participants, we identified 30 exceptional talents who will form Ajegunle Angels, a team we believe will make the community proud,” he said.
Anaelechukwu said the programme, which began in February, aimed to create structured football opportunities for girls in the community.
“Our goal was to provide a platform where girls can thrive in football while building confidence and discipline,” he noted.
He added that the initiative achieved its aim, with participants showing remarkable growth in skill, confidence and teamwork.
“The transformation is impressive. Their skills, confidence and teamwork have improved significantly,” he added.
Some participants expressed ambition to pursue football careers, with 13-year-old Chinaza Okafor aspiring to represent Nigeria.
“I want to play for Nigeria someday. This programme has shown me that my dream is possible,” she said.
Another participant said, “I am more confident now and my family supports my football journey.”
The programme featured thrice-weekly training sessions, combining technical drills with life-skills education, including hygiene, self-esteem and academics.
“We ensured the girls were trained in football and equipped with essential life skills,” Anaelechukwu said.
He added the project would expand into coaching, refereeing and sports medicine to broaden career opportunities.
“We are looking beyond playing football and want to expose them to other career paths,” he said.
The Lagos State Football Association supported the initiative, providing technical guidance throughout the programme.
“The support from the Lagos FA was instrumental in ensuring the project’s success,” he said.
Organisers said the project would return in August for a second phase targeting 250 participants.
“We are excited about the next phase and aim to reach more girls in the community,” he said.
All 150 participants will receive certificates during the finals of the Nathaniel Idowu-Ajegunle Under-14 Football League Super Four at Nathaniel Idowu Football Pitch, Oregie.
