Falode Applauds Growth of Women’s Football After Cup Finale

Organisers of the Nigeria Women’s Cup witnessed a riveting final as Rivers Angels and Nasarawa Amazons battled to a draw before Rivers Angels clinched the trophy on penalties, securing a record‑breaking 10th title. The chair of the Nigerian Women’s Football League board, Aisha Falode, commended both teams for the quality of play and growth in the women’s game. She pointed out that the thrilling contest was a vivid indicator of how far women’s football has come in Nigeria.

Falode further praised the tournament’s organisers, the Nigeria Football Federation, for the seamless event delivery. Her remarks underscored the professionalism and dedication now evident at all levels of the knockout competition. She also highlighted the importance of nurturing grassroots talent, noting that strong league structures lead to stronger national teams. The growing investment in women’s football through sponsorships and enhanced stadium experiences, she argued, is beginning to yield positive results both on and off the pitch.

In shedding light on Rivers Angels’ historical dominance in the Cup, Falode said: “The fact that they have reached and won so many finals is evidence of sustained excellence, something we must invest in to raise standards across the board.”

Editorial

We cannot overlook the significance of this latest Cup final, not just as a spectacle, but as a turning point in women’s football. The drama of a penalty shoot‑out deciding a tenth title for Rivers Angels speaks to both competitiveness and high stakes. We believe this crescendo of excitement is precisely what will draw more fans to the stands and media coverage to the sport.

It is within our collective remit to ensure that such thrilling moments are replicated across all levels of the game. We see a league structure gradually maturing, but we are also acutely aware that this momentum must be sustained. We must advocate for deeper investment in infrastructure, better remuneration for players and officials, and expanded youth programmes, so that the next generation can build on this success.

By now fostering public private partnerships and attracting sponsors, the NWFL has taken bold steps but much remains to be done. We must unite behind this progress. Only by working together can we ensure that women’s football becomes a consistent draw for viewers and sponsors alike, and continues to elevate our national pride.

We end where we began this Cup final demonstrates what is possible when ambition meets opportunity and we must continue to turn these possibilities into realities.

Did You Know?

1. Rivers Angels’ 10th title makes them the most successful club in the history of the Nigeria Women’s Cup.
2. The Nigeria Women’s Cup (President Federation Cup) dates back 29 years, with this year’s edition running from 5 March to 28 June.
3. In the 2024 final, Rivers Angels also triumphed earning their ninth title by defeating Bayelsa Queens on penalties.
4. The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) was officially formed in January 2017, with Aisha Falode appointed chairperson, succeeding Dilichukwu Onyedinma.
5. Over 70% of players selected for the Nigerian Super Falcons have come through the NWFL, highlighting the league’s importance in national team recruitment.