The ancient city of Benin came alive with excitement, learning, and inspiration as the second edition of the Aisha Falode ‘Girls Play’ Forward initiative officially kicked off at the Lucky Igbinedion Sports Complex, GRA, Benin City, Edo State.
The impactful initiative, spearheaded by renowned sports administrator, broadcaster, and passionate advocate for women’s football, Aisha Falode, is focused on empowering young girls through football, mentorship, leadership development, health education, and life skills training.
Designed to create safe and inclusive spaces where girls can grow, express themselves, and build confidence, the programme continues to use sport as a powerful tool for social change and personal development. Through football and interactive learning sessions, participants are encouraged to embrace discipline, teamwork, courage, leadership, and self-belief.
The atmosphere at the venue was vibrant and energetic as the girls participated in football drills, fun games, mentorship sessions, face painting, and engaging educational activities, all carefully structured to inspire and uplift the participants while celebrating the spirit of Children’s Day 2026.
Speaking on the programme, Aisha Falode reaffirmed her passion and commitment towards creating opportunities for young girls to thrive through sports and education.
According to her, the ‘Girls Play’ Forward initiative is not just about football, but about helping young girls discover their voices, unlock their potential, and believe in themselves regardless of their background or circumstances.
She stressed the importance of creating platforms that encourage girls to dream boldly, develop leadership qualities, and understand that they can achieve greatness both on and off the pitch.
Falode further noted that sports remain one of the most effective tools for empowerment, inclusion, and social transformation, especially for young girls who often lack access to opportunities and mentorship in many communities.
She expressed appreciation to partners, coaches, volunteers, parents, and stakeholders who continue to support the vision of using football as a means of inspiring the next generation of female leaders and changemakers.
Several dignitaries and sports stakeholders were present at the event to support the initiative, including former Governor of Edo State, Lucky Igbinedion; Executive Director of the Edo State Sports Commission, Sabina Chikere; Chairman of the Edo Football Association, Fred Newton Erhunmwunse; Media Aide on Strategic Communication to the Director General of the NSC, Oluchi Tobex-Tobechukwu;
Assistant Coach of Bendel Insurance FC, Gregory Ikhenoba; and Assistant Coach of Edo Queens FC, Otasowie Ogbonmwan, among many others.
The smiles, excitement, and enthusiasm displayed by the participants reflected the growing impact of the initiative as the girls embraced the opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate themselves in a fun-filled and empowering atmosphere.
