FCT FA Backs Grassroots Drive As Women’s Tournament Kicks Off
The next generation of female football stars may already be playing in FCT communities, and the FCT Football Association says it is determined to find them where they live.
FCT FA Chairman, Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed, made this clear as the second edition of the FCT FA Women’s Inter Area Council Football Tournament kicked off in Abuja, featuring teams from the territory’s six Area Councils.
Mouktar said the competition was designed to move women’s football development beyond the city centre by giving young girls regular opportunities to play, improve and attract the attention of coaches and scouts.
“We are not waiting for others to develop the players and then scout them,” he said. “This competition will give them the opportunity to play, get developed and become part of the system.”
He said the tournament would also help keep young people away from social vices while building discipline, courage and determination.
Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Hon. Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, backed the initiative, describing grassroots development as the foundation for rebuilding women’s football in Nigeria.
Omidiran urged individuals and organisations to invest in the women’s game, saying its impact extends beyond football to the confidence and future prospects of young girls.
FCT FA board member, Dr Pat Ajuma Ayegba, said the first edition had already produced promising talents, with some players making rapid progress in their careers.
She said the home-and-away format of the second edition was aimed at reaching more girls and convincing parents that football could provide a viable career path.
The tournament will also serve as a talent pool for selecting players for the FCT women’s football team.
AMAC made an emphatic start, defeating Gwagwalada Area Council 7-0 in the opening match as all six Area Councils began their battle for the title.
Join Our WhatsApp Community
