Asisat Oshoala, a prominent figure in Nigerian and international football, has established a foundation that goes beyond simply developing footballing talent. The Asisat Oshoala Foundation, through its academy, is fostering a holistic approach to developing young Nigerian girls, equipping them with essential life skills and leadership qualities alongside their football training. This multifaceted approach recognizes the transient nature of a sporting career and aims to prepare these young women for a successful future regardless of their professional trajectory in football.
The Foundation’s recent Easter Fiesta, themed “S.H.E. PLAYS” (Sports, Humanitarian, Education), encapsulates this comprehensive philosophy. Held at the Femi Gbajabiamila Mini Stadium in Ojuelegba, the event offered a diverse range of activities, including soccer skills training, mentorship sessions with experienced individuals, life skills and leadership workshops, CPR instruction, and a mini football tournament. This blend of practical skills, personal development, and sporting activity underscores the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. The emphasis on leadership and life skills, as highlighted by Academy Director Lanre Vigo, reflects a forward-thinking approach that recognizes the importance of empowering young women to take charge of their futures and become leaders in their chosen fields.
The annual Easter Fiesta serves as a platform for young girls to explore their potential beyond the football pitch. Oluwaseun Savage, Head of Operations at the academy, explains that the event encourages the girls to consider alternative career paths within the football ecosystem, such as coaching or management roles. This broadens their horizons and empowers them to envision futures that remain connected to their passion even if they don’t pursue a professional playing career. This forward-thinking strategy reinforces the Foundation’s dedication to providing sustainable opportunities for these young women. It also recognizes the value of diverse skill sets within the sporting world and aims to equip the girls to contribute to the industry in various capacities.
Established eight years ago, the Asisat Oshoala Foundation has consistently prioritized the holistic development of its participants. Alabi Kazeem, the Academy’s head coach, emphasizes that this comprehensive approach acknowledges the finite nature of a football career. The average playing lifespan for a female footballer is relatively short, and the Foundation aims to equip the girls with skills and knowledge that extend beyond the playing field, ensuring they have viable alternatives for sustained livelihoods after their playing days are over. This foresight demonstrates a commitment to long-term empowerment and underscores the Foundation’s understanding of the challenges faced by female athletes in a demanding and often short-lived career.
The success of the Asisat Oshoala Foundation is evident in the achievements of its alumni, with several graduates representing Nigeria at youth levels. One notable example is Janet Semenya, who currently plays for Nasarawa Amazons. This achievement underscores the efficacy of the academy’s training programs and its ability to nurture promising talent. In addition to its football program, the academy, in collaboration with Lagos State, operates a vocational study center offering courses in carpentry, hairdressing, bead making, and other practical skills. This diversification of skill sets enhances the girls’ employability and provides them with alternative income-generating avenues. This multi-pronged approach reinforces the Foundation’s commitment to empowering the girls with the skills and resources necessary to thrive in various sectors.
The impact of the Asisat Oshoala Foundation is palpable in the testimonies of its participants. Aminat Ajao, a 400-level engineering student at the University of Ilorin and a defender in the academy, highlights the challenges of balancing academic pursuits with a football career. She draws inspiration from role models like Asisat Oshoala and Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie, who have successfully navigated the dual demands of education and professional football. Ajao’s story underscores the importance of programs like those offered by the Foundation in supporting young women who aspire to excel in both academics and sports. Her call for more such initiatives highlights the need for increased investment in programs that empower young girls and provide them with the necessary resources to pursue their dreams. The academy’s plans for future expansion beyond Lagos, contingent on support from corporate bodies and the government, reflect its ambition to reach a wider audience and amplify its positive impact. This expansion aligns with the Foundation’s vision of creating a more equitable future for young girls in Nigeria by empowering them through sports, education, and life skills.
