Nigerian sports have witnessed significant growth in recent years, with athletes excelling on global stages. However, beneath these achievements lies a troubling reality – the growing gender disparity in opportunities, recognition, and investment in women’s sports. The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season commenced on January 15, 2025, marking a significant step as teams vie for qualification in the inaugural Women’s World Club Cup set for 2026.
Despite notable developments in Nigerian women’s football, challenges persist. The NWFL continues to grapple with issues such as inadequate funding, limited media coverage, and insufficient infrastructure. These obstacles hinder the league’s growth and the overall development of women’s football in the country. Unequal funding and investment between male and female sports are glaring issues. Women’s teams across different sports struggle with inadequate financial backing, poor welfare packages, and substandard training facilities.
According to FIFA’s 2023 Women’s Football Report, “women’s football receives only a fraction of the investment compared to men’s football, with an estimated global funding gap of 70%.” This lack of financial backing directly impacts the development of female athletes and their ability to compete at the highest levels. Fatai Bashiru, head coach of Dannaz Ladies Football Club, emphasized the importance of welfare for player performance and team morale.
“Welfare is absolutely crucial—very, very important. It goes beyond just playing football; it encompasses every aspect of a player’s well-being. Proper feeding ensures they have the nutrition needed to perform at their best, while decent accommodation provides a stable and comfortable environment for rest and recovery. Additionally, financial support is essential to cater to their personal needs, from basic necessities to healthcare and even motivation. When players are well taken care of, they can focus entirely on their performance on the pitch, knowing that their welfare is prioritized.”
The appointment of female coaches and technical staff is also rare, reducing opportunities for women to take up influential roles in the industry. Nigerian female footballers are making strides internationally, with Chiamaka Okwuchukwu securing a contract with San Diego Wave FC and Asisat Oshoala transferring to Bay FC. Rasheedat Ajibade’s success at Atletico Madrid in Spain underscores the increasing demand for Nigerian players in top-tier international leagues.
To bridge the gap, there is a need for increased investment in women’s sports, improved infrastructure, and greater representation of women in leadership positions. By addressing these challenges, Nigerian women’s sports can reach its full potential and provide equal opportunities for female athletes. With the right support and resources, Nigerian female athletes can continue to excel on the global stage and bring pride to their nation.
The current state of women’s sports in Nigeria highlights the need for urgent action to address the disparities in funding, infrastructure, and representation. By working together, stakeholders can create a more equitable and supportive environment for female athletes, enabling them to reach their full potential and achieve greater success.