Omidiran calls for grassroots investment to rebuild Nigeria's women's football

Hulayat Omidiran, Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission and former official of the Nigeria Football Federation, has called for a comprehensive rebuilding of women’s football in Nigeria. Speaking at the opening of the 2026 FCT FA Women’s Inter-Area Council Football Tournament in Abuja, Omidiran emphasized that the national team’s failure to qualify for the next Women’s World Cup should serve as a catalyst for reform.

Omidiran advocated for a shift toward grassroots investment, arguing that the country must focus on early talent identification, quality coaching, and improved facilities to create a sustainable pipeline for national teams and professional clubs. She stressed that relying on past successes is insufficient and that a clear developmental strategy is required to nurture young female athletes.

The tournament, held at the Area 3 Sports Complex, featured young players from the Federal Capital Territory. Omidiran praised the initiative as a vital step in providing the necessary environment for girls to develop their skills and confidence.