Asisat Oshoala Academy – Everything you need to know

Asisat Oshoala Academy – Everything you need to know
Credit: Icon Sport

Asisat Oshoala, the illustrious five-time African Footballer of the Year and a prominent star of FC Barcelona Femení, embarked on a remarkable journey in 2022 by launching the ‘Asisat Oshoala Academy' (AOA).

This groundbreaking initiative is not just about football; it's a platform for change and empowerment.

In a significant partnership with Nike and Women Win, AOA is dedicated to providing access to football and essential life skills for marginalized schoolgirls in the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria.

Building upon Asisat Oshoala's unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for young girls in her community, the academy aims to be a catalyst for transformation.

It embraces the twin goals of sport and education, recognizing their power to shape lives and inspire dreams.

The foundation of change: The Asisat Oshoala Foundation's role i

The Asisat Oshoala Foundation, established in 2015, takes on the pivotal role of managing the day-to-day operations of the academy.

With Women Win, the Amsterdam-based global women's fund that champions girls' and women's rights, lending their expertise, AOA has the guidance and resources to make a profound impact on the lives of these young girls.

Together, they are not just nurturing footballing talent; they are nurturing the leaders, changemakers, and champions of tomorrow, exemplifying the true spirit of sportsmanship and empowerment.

The Target audience

The Asisat Oshoala Foundation extends a warm welcome to girls and young women, ranging from ages 8 to 18, representing diverse ethnic backgrounds.

The foundation's geographical focus primarily centers on the six geopolitical zones within Nigeria, with a particular emphasis on the vibrant city of Lagos.

Importantly, AOF operates on the principle that no barriers should hinder participation, irrespective of religious beliefs, financial circumstances, or socio-economic status.

Inclusivity and empowerment know no boundaries at AOF, as it endeavors to provide opportunities and support to young girls from all walks of life.

Empowering through sport and education: The programs of the Asisat Oshoala Academy

The Asisat Oshoala Academy (AOA) is not just about nurturing footballing talent; it's a powerful force of change that combines sport and education to empower young girls.

This groundbreaking initiative provides 30 girls between the ages of 12 and 18 with access to 90 minutes of football training thrice a week. But it doesn't stop there; AOA recognizes that true empowerment extends beyond the field.

In addition to football, the program offers a vital component of life skills education, encompassing a range of empowerment and rights-based topics.

These essential life skills not only equip the girls to excel in their chosen fields but also to become leaders and champions of their own lives.

AOA encourages graduates from the academy to convert their newfound leadership skills into positively impacting their respective communities, creating a ripple effect of change.

But AOA's impact doesn't end at the academy gates. The program hosts four ‘She Plays' events every year, extending its reach and influence. These events bring together up to 100 schoolgirls, aged 12 to 18 years, in each session.

‘She Plays' events broaden the scope of AOA's activities and serve as a platform for these young girls to showcase their skills and celebrate their potential.

The Asisat Oshoala Academy is more than just a football academy; it's a catalyst for transformation, empowerment, and realising dreams.

Contact information for AOA: How to reach the Asisat Oshoala Academy

London Office

1077 Layman Court — 10001, New York
646-312-6838

New York Office

19 Maypole Crescent — Ilford, L6 2UJ
+44 800 283 8292

Lagos Office

Lorem Georgiou 22 — Phychiko
+7(4742)81-91-70

AOA coaches

Kazeem Alabi
Position: Head Coach

Emmanuel Osahon
Position: Head of Recruitment and Talent Identification

Diana Asak Position: Assistant Coach

Rasheed Oladipo
Position: Assistant Coach

This article was most recently revised and updated 1 year ago

Rababe Koussaimi, a 22-year-old journalist, is deeply passionate about the world of sports. She grew up in a footballing environment, supporting both Bayern Munich and Wydad Athletic Club. She began her English journalism career by hosting a podcast for the first English radio station in Morocco. Currently, the Moroccan journalist channels her enthusiasm into writing and conducting extensive research, creating insightful and engaging content for GoalBall Live readers.