At just 13 years old, Al-Imam Aishat Aramide has made history in Kwara State, Nigeria, as the youngest ever match official in the Kwara Kiddies League.
Aishat, a Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1) student at Productive Model College in Ilorin, debuted as the second assistant referee during a top-tier clash between Koller Football Academy and Afrikan Kiddies.
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The match, which saw Koller Football Academy win 3-0, was notable not only for the on-field action but also for Aishat’s confident and composed officiating.
As a Grade 3 referee, Aishat’s responsibilities included crucial offside calls and boundary decisions, which she handled with a calm professionalism that earned her praise from both spectators and officials.
According to the league’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Ibrahim Jatto, Aishat’s presence is a testament to the league’s commitment to nurturing young talent, not just among players but in officiating roles as well.
Her achievement highlights the growing opportunities for youths in sports, especially in a region known for its passion for football development.
The Kwara Kiddies League, which focuses on promoting young athletes, has now expanded its impact to developing future referees, coaches, and other football professionals.
Aishat’s historic debut reflects the league’s wider goal of fostering all aspects of the game, inspiring more young girls and boys to pursue their passions within sports.
