As the Super Falcons prepare to battle defending champions South Africa in the 2024 WAFCON semifinals, the conversation around grassroots contributions to Nigeria’s success continues to gain relevance.
Mr. Damilare Jaiyeola, President of the Female Football Academy Proprietors (FEFAP) and organizer of the Women Accredited Football Academy (WAFA) League, offered deep insights in an exclusive interview with Awijare Sports. From praising Lagos’ new State League initiative to expressing concern over national league neglect, Jaiyeola raised important questions about the future of women’s football in Nigeria.
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Belief in the Super Falcons
Jaiyeola expressed confidence in the current Super Falcons team.
“I believe Nigeria will defeat South Africa. The squad is mentally and physically ready,” he said.
“This coach has been rotating players in earlier matches to give everyone a chance. But in today’s match, I’m sure he’ll field his strongest team. South Africa is no threat.”
Home-Based Players Need Better Support
As president of WAFA, the grassroots league producing dozens of national-level talents, Jaiyeoba lamented the declining visibility and competitiveness of domestic leagues.
“Representation of home-based players is fair for now, but if we do not improve our local leagues, it will become impossible to produce players who can compete with foreign-based stars.”
He noted that Nigeria hasn’t held the NWFL Championship this year or the Nationwide League in over two years, leaving academy players and coaches without exposure or pathways.
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“We are raising girls who want careers in football, and many of us are funding these dreams from our pockets without any help. The Federation needs to step up and ensure that there are tournaments the girls can play to move to the next level.”
NWFL Board Gets 5 out of 10
Asked about the outgoing NWFL Board, Jaiyeoba did not hold back.
“They left without conducting the Nationwide League for two seasons and the Championship League for this year. For me, that’s a failure. Grassroots football suffered under their leadership.”
He rated their tenure 5 out of 10, pointing out that if not for WAFA West and other regional grassroots leagues in the North and South, there would be no talent pipeline to speak of; the players would just be sitting down without competition.
Lagos State League: A Promising Start
Jaiyeola had high praise for the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) and its newly launched State League, which saw his team, Victory Queens, finish second.
“The LSFA did something no other state has done. They organized a proper home-and-away league for women, keeping young players active and competitive for nearly five months.”
He also applauded key organizers like the LSFA Chairman, Alhaji Liameed Gafar; his vice, Mr. Dotun Coker; Mr. Wale Joseph; the League Chief Executive Officer; and not forgetting the Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Musibau (MS) for their support and coordination.
“It’s a great learning curve. Players gained match fitness and adapted to travelling and competing outside their comfort zones.”
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Looking Ahead: Sponsorship is Key
Jaiyeoba appealed for sponsorship to help sustain and expand the State League.
“Next season, we need financial support. All Super 4 teams should be kitted. Sponsorship will make a difference and distinguish serious teams from the rest.”
He remains hopeful that the success of this year’s pilot edition will attract private and public sector backing going forward.
Final Word
Grassroots football remains the foundation of Nigeria’s women’s teams. Leaders like Mr. Jaiyeola and organizations like WAFA are holding the fort with passion and personal sacrifice. For sustained success at the national level, it is time for the NFF, stakeholders, and sponsors to give grassroots women’s football the structured support it deserves.
