Sports
Soho24 Foundation Targets 300 Girls for Empowerment Through Sports, Mentorship, and Skills Acquisition
By Joel Ajayi
In a bold step toward raising a new generation of empowered young girls, Soho24 Foundation, led by Olympic gold medallist Ambassador Christy Opara, MON, has unveiled plans for its International Girl-Child Empowerment Programme scheduled for October 11, 2025, in Abuja—to coincide with the International Day of the Girl Child.
As part of the programme, the Foundation will stage a novelty football match between the Paramilitary and Defence Headquarters teams, symbolizing unity, teamwork, and inclusion. The event aims to promote gender equality by equipping girls with confidence, mentorship, and performance skills needed to excel both locally and globally.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Soho24 Foundation Sports Park, Ambassador Opara shared her vision to empower over 300 girls between the ages of 11 and 18 through sports initiatives, mentorship, and skills acquisition programmes.
“Our mission is to raise girls who will lead classrooms, dominate fields, break barriers, and carry Nigeria’s name with pride. We have already empowered over 100 girls in this community through school fee support, mentorship, and skills training. Now, we are scaling up to reach 200 to 300 girls across Abuja. This is not just about inspiration—it is about action,” she said.
According to her, the programme is anchored on three key pillars: Advancing Education – ensuring girls remain in school while benefiting from the discipline and resilience that sports instill.
Promoting Gender Equality – building girls’ confidence, mentorship access, and performance skills to compete on the global stage.
Bridging Inequalities – creating opportunities for underserved girls through sports, education, and empowerment initiatives.
Ambassador Opara further called on the media to amplify the initiative’s message:
“You, the press, are the megaphone of this movement. Your coverage can inspire millions of homes—every girl who wonders if her dream matters, and every parent who questions whether investing in their daughter’s future is worth it.”
Reflecting on her journey as an Olympian, mother, and youth advocate, Opara stressed that greatness is built on resilience, opportunity, and community support.
“I renew my commitment today to raise a generation of girls who will rise stronger, faster, and braver. Together, let us declare that no girl will be left behind.”
Also speaking at the briefing, Dr. Caleb Gidado, former Director of Planning, Research, and Documentation at the National Sports Commission, commended Ambassador Opara for her foresight and service to society. He described her as a pacesetter worthy of emulation:
“Thank you for organising such a comprehensive programme to give back to society. You reached the pinnacle of your career, won an Olympic medal, and are now actively grooming future champions. I believe this initiative will inspire many gold medallists in the years to come.”
In a goodwill message, DSP Adoh Nwakaego, Community Engagement Officer representing the POCACOV National Coordinator, ACP Olabisi Okwuobi, hailed the initiative, assuring that the Nigeria Police will leave no stone unturned in supporting the success of the programme.
Sports
Dr. Ogunbiyi Emerges New President of Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, Vows Greater Development
Joel Ajayi
Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi on Saturday emerged as the new President of the Nigeria Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, taking over from Rear Admiral Festus Porbeni (rtd).
In an election held at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Ogunbiyi polled all 13 votes cast to win unopposed in what stakeholders described as one of the freest and fairest elections in recent times.
Similarly, Mr. Kayode Abulazeez was elected Vice President after securing 13 out of 13 votes.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Ogunbiyi commended the outgoing president for laying a solid foundation for the Federation.
He noted that under Porbeni’s leadership, Nigeria achieved notable milestones, including participation in Olympic qualifiers.
“Over the last 10 to 15 years, the Federation has gained national recognition through sacrifice and commitment. We must now build on that foundation to take rowing, canoeing, and sailing to the next level,” Ogunbiyi said.
He stressed that infrastructure development and nationwide talent scouting will be top priorities for the new board, adding that Nigeria’s abundant water resources hold great potential for the growth of water sports.
“We will consolidate on what has been achieved and, with the support of government agencies and corporate sponsors, I believe that within one to two years we will witness massive progress in this sport,” he added.
Ogunbiyi also acknowledged the challenge of Nigeria’s poor maintenance culture, promising that the Federation will not only construct new facilities but also maintain existing ones in line with international standards.
He pledged to align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in driving sustainable development in the sport.
On his own, the Vice President Kayode Abulazeez, appreciated the delegates for their confidence and stressed that infrastructure remains key to discovering hidden talents across the country.
“Nigeria is blessed with diverse water bodies, and we must make rowing, canoeing, and sailing inclusive sports developed across all regions,” he said.
Speaking also, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Mr. Olumide Bamiduro, described the election as seamless and transparent, noting that strict adherence to rules and regulations ensured its credibility.
“This is one of the freest and fairest elections conducted in recent times. My charge to the new board is to work in unity and harmony to move the Federation forward,” Bamiduro stated.
He also commended the management of the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Malam Shehu Dikko, Chairman, and Dr. Bukola Olopade, Secretary-General, for providing the enabling environment for the successful conduct of the polls.
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured5 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News9 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
