The grand finale of the maiden edition of the FCT FA Women’s Inter-Area Councils Football Tournament on Sunday offered yet another opportunity for President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, to emphasize his administration’s unwavering commitment to grassroots football development.
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“I am fulfilled being part of this success. Championships like this are the real platforms for talent discovery, and I must commend the organizers for their vision and execution,”
Gusau said. “I made a vow to be here and I am proud to identify with initiatives like this. It aligns perfectly with my agenda of promoting grassroots development since coming into office and taking the sport to every corner of the country. I am truly proud of the investment and dedication shown by Pat Ajuma Ayegba, and I fully support initiatives of this nature.”
In a thrilling finale staged at the NFF-FIFA Goal Project, MKO Abiola National Stadium, AMAC Area Council emerged champions after a solitary goal by Ruth Torsue secured a narrow victory over Gwagwalada Area Council. Meanwhile, in the third-place playoff, Kwali overcame Kuje 4-3 on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time to clinch the bronze medals.
The winning AMAC team was awarded a cash prize of ₦250,000, while Gwagwalada and Kwali received ₦150,000 and ₦100,000 respectively for finishing second and third.
A major highlight of the event was the conferment of a Meritorious Award on Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau in recognition of his outstanding leadership and immense contributions to football development in Nigeria and the West African region.
Tournament initiator and sponsor, Pat Ajuma Ayegba, who also chairs the FCT FA Women’s Football Committee, expressed immense satisfaction with the tournament’s success. “This is a dream come true. I congratulate all the participating teams, especially the champions AMAC, for their outstanding performance. I sincerely thank the NFF President for the honour of his presence and the fond memories offered to these young, ambitious female footballers. I also deeply appreciate the support of the Minister of Women’s Affairs and the humongous backing of the FCT FA leadership,” she said.
Representing the Minister of Women’s Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Special Assistant Alkali Suleiman praised the initiative, noting its transformative impact. “This initiative is highly commendable, creating a platform that takes young girls off the streets and engages them positively through sports. On behalf of the Honourable Minister, I pledge our Ministry’s continued support to sustain and grow this laudable project as it aligns with our agenda.”
