Coach Udo redefining women football in northern Nigeria

In a country where football coaching remains largely male dominated, Coach Udo Nfoniso, is carving out an enduring legacy by transforming the landscape of women’s football at the grassroots in northern Nigeria. Her journey into football coaching began in 2019 during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Gombe State.  Nfoniso said she had come […]

In a country where football coaching remains largely male dominated, Coach Udo Nfoniso, is carving out an enduring legacy by transforming the landscape of women’s football at the grassroots in northern Nigeria.

Her journey into football coaching began in 2019 during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Gombe State.

 Nfoniso said she had come across a group of young girls with a deep passion for football but no access to formal training or mentorship.

Instead of walking away, the young female coach said that she decided to embark on a mission to nurture potential stars when others looked the other way.

“What led me into coaching was the love I have for sports, particularly football. But beyond that, I’m passionate about discovering and shaping young talents, especially girls who are often overlooked in the football space.”

With this passion and enthusiasm, she launched grassroots training sessions for girls, providing well-structured football education and creating a safe space for them to grow as athletes and individuals.

Her initiative quickly gained attention for its focus on both football talent development and personal growth.

Determined to excel, Coach Udo earned a Diploma in Football Coaching at the National Institute for Sports (NIS).

She didn’t stop there as she pursued advanced international certifications, completing coaching courses with the Football Association (FA) in England, UEFA, and the MBP School of Coaches in Barcelona, Spain.

These local and international coaching certificates have armed her with modern knowledge in player development, tactical strategy, scouting, and athlete welfare management which she now applies in every training session.

Nfoniso views her players not just as athletes, but as young women with dreams, dignity, and the right to every available opportunity in football.

Gradually, she is becoming a role model and a symbol of perseverance as her impact has gone beyond the football pitches in Gombe.

Nfoniso’s story is one of passion, courage, purpose, and resilience, highlighting the irrefutable fact that with the right support, female footballers, especially those in northern Nigeria can excel globally.

As she continues to break barriers and challenge gender stereotypes in sport, the young coach remains focused on her mission: to develop the next generation of female football stars and ensure they have the tools and platform to thrive.