At the close of the 2024 Annual General Assembly of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), Chairperson Nkechi Obi reiterated her commitment to driving sustainable growth and inclusivity in women’s football across Nigeria.
Her address highlighted the league’s successes, ongoing reforms, and ambitious plans for the future.
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“Our league is at a pivotal moment,” Obi began. “The strides we have made, from achieving financial stability to expanding opportunities for players, demonstrate our collective resolve to transform women’s football in Nigeria into a globally competitive enterprise.”
Obi celebrated the league’s financial progress, moving from a deficit of over ₦15 million in the 2023/2024 season to a surplus of more than ₦3 million. She attributed this success to the NWFL Board’s marketing initiatives and operational efficiency.
“This turnaround is proof of what we can achieve with strategic planning and collaboration. It sets the stage for the bigger plans we have ahead,” she noted.
Obi detailed the league’s ambitious expansion plan, which includes increasing the NWFL Premiership to 20 clubs starting in the 2025/2026 season and rolling out the States League as the third tier from 2024/2025.
She emphasized that these changes are not just about numbers but about building a robust ecosystem for talent discovery and development.
“Our decision to expand is rooted in our vision to create opportunities for more girls and women to pursue football as a career,” Obi explained.
“By adding more clubs and introducing the States League, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable future.”
The Chairperson also acknowledged the unanimous vote of confidence in her leadership and commended stakeholders for their unwavering support.
“The journey ahead will require even greater collaboration, and I am confident that with the shared commitment of all stakeholders, we can achieve our goals.”
Obi concluded by outlining the immediate focus for the league, including the January 15, 2025, kick-off of the new NWFL Premiership season and the continued implementation of reforms.
“We are ready to embrace the future of women’s football in Nigeria, and I am proud to lead a league that prioritizes growth, inclusivity, and excellence.”
As the NWFL embarks on this transformative phase, Obi’s leadership remains a driving force, inspiring confidence and optimism among stakeholders and fans alike.