The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Chief Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has called for greater investment in girls’ participation in sports, stressing that no Nigerian girl should be denied the opportunity to discover and develop her potential because of gender, background or economic circumstances.
Adeboye made the call in his goodwill message commemorating the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11, describing the occasion as an important reminder of the need to create safer, more inclusive and supportive environments for young girls across Nigeria.
The Presidential aide said sports remains a powerful instrument for building confidence, discipline, leadership and resilience among girls, while providing opportunities for education, personal development and future careers.
“Every girl deserves the chance to dream, play and become a champion. Whether she comes from a rural community or an urban centre, her talent deserves recognition, encouragement and the opportunity to flourish,” Adeboye said.
He noted that Nigeria’s achievements in women’s sports, particularly through the Super Falcons, D’Tigress and outstanding female athletes in athletics, wrestling and other disciplines, demonstrate what Nigerian girls can accomplish when given opportunities.
According to him, those successes should inspire deliberate investment in school sports, community competitions, coaching programmes and accessible sporting facilities for girls.
“We celebrate our Super Falcons, D’Tigress and other female champions because they have brought honour to Nigeria. But we must also remember that the next generation of these champions is currently sitting in our classrooms, playing in our communities and waiting for someone to believe in them,” he stated.
Adeboye emphasised that grassroots sports development must address barriers that discourage girls from participating, including inadequate facilities, limited competitions, financial challenges and societal stereotypes.
He urged parents, schools, community leaders, sports administrators and corporate organisations to support initiatives that encourage girls to combine education with sporting excellence.
The SSA further reaffirmed his Office’s commitment to promoting inclusive grassroots development programmes that create opportunities for both boys and girls.
“Sports development cannot be complete if our girls are left behind. We must create an environment where every girl feels safe, supported and confident enough to pursue her ambitions,” he added.
Adeboye said empowering girls through sports also contributes to stronger families, healthier communities and national development.
As Nigeria joins the international community in celebrating the occasion, he encouraged young girls to remain focused on their education, believe in their abilities and pursue their dreams with determination.
“To every Nigerian girl, your dreams are valid, your potential is limitless, and your future matters. Keep believing, keep learning and never allow your circumstances to determine how far you can go.”
He concluded that stronger girls today will build stronger communities and a brighter Nigeria tomorrow.
