In the vibrant and ever-evolving world of Nigerian women’s football, few names command as much admiration and emotional resonance as Evangelist Moses Bako. A loyal supporter for over 35 years, Bako is not just a familiar face in the stands—he’s a pillar of the sport, known by players, referees, administrators, and fans alike.
Bako’s commitment has never been about headlines or glory. Instead, it is rooted in genuine love—unshakeable, enduring, and deeply personal. From his base in Benin and now Lagos, the Lokoja-born supporter has crisscrossed Nigeria championing the growth of women’s football. As the founder and convener of Soccer Queens, he has built a vibrant community that celebrates the unsung heroes of the game, while his recent launch of the Northern Amateur Women Football League—which made its debut in Jos—further reflects his dedication to nurturing grassroots talent.
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At the just-concluded NWFL Super 6 Tournament in Ikenne, Bako’s presence was more than ceremonial. Whether you caught him dancing to the rhythms of the supporters’ club or engaged in spirited conversations about tactics and talent, his passion was impossible to miss. He also served as the anchor of the Naija Women Football Award, adding flair and recognition to an already electrifying event.
But perhaps the most moving moment came not from the matches or the medals—but from the sidelines. Bako was effusive in his praise for the young, relatively unknown female referees officiating the tournament. Game after game, he commended their composure, accuracy, and professionalism—qualities often overlooked in the analysis of football matches.
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Then came a gesture that perfectly captured the spirit of the tournament and the man himself.
In a scene reminiscent of a fresh university graduate proudly collecting signatures from classmates, Moses Bako approached the referees and asked each of them to sign his shirt—a symbolic and deeply touching tribute to the job they had done. It was a simple but profound moment that resonated with everyone who saw the image he later shared on the Soccer Queens WhatsApp group.
“Autographs of the Referees at the NWFL Super 6. They have done well so far. Tomorrow they will surely be on top of their game. Up Refs…,” he wrote.
These words weren’t just encouragement—they were validation. In a sport where referees are often scrutinized and criticized, Bako’s gesture was a celebration of progress and potential.
For Moses Bako, women’s football is more than a pastime. It is a calling, a cause, and a community. His presence at the NWFL Super 6 wasn’t just felt—it was lived. And for those who share his passion, his actions remind us that football is at its best when it’s powered by heart, humility, and hope.
As the game continues to grow in Nigeria, it does so on the shoulders of men and women like Moses Bako—whose support, leadership, and vision are the true trophies of the sport.
