The Gridiron Gems Initiative, a flagship program of the Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA), has successfully concluded its flag football activation at the Special Correctional Centre for Girls, Idi-Araba, Lagos.
The activation marked the grand finale of a month-long engagement focused on empowerment, inclusion, and skill-building.
The girls, who proudly wore jerseys they designed and sewed themselves as part of a vocational program, took to the field with excitement for a day of structured scrimmages and team activities.
The event introduced the fundamentals of American flag football to the girls while promoting teamwork, discipline, and confidence through sport.
Divided into four teams—Emerald, Topaz, Ruby, and Zircon—the girls showcased impressive enthusiasm, agility, and team spirit throughout the day.
Nancy Damhindi, Program Coordinator for the Gridiron Gems Initiative, shared that this event was never just about football.
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“It’s about helping young girls see themselves in new ways strong, capable, and full of potential. The sport is simply a tool to unlock that power.”
She further said “Our goal is to build a full pipeline of opportunities for girls across Nigeria to participate in the sport whether as athletes, coaches, or leaders.”
Although the girls could not be interviewed due to safeguarding policies, the atmosphere of pride, laughter, and sisterhood spoke volumes.
Cheers rang out as teammates supported one another on the field, embodying a few core values of the Gridiron Gems Initiative: courage, inclusion, and community.
OluwaTobi Abe, who coordinated all match fixtures and gameplay for the activation, commended the girls for their commitment and discipline. “This was an activation like no other,” he said.
“The girls caught on really fast, and you wouldn’t believe we’ve only been here for a few hours. They are excited to about the sport and looking forward to exploring it more.”
Special appreciation was extended to the Lagos State Government, Browns Nigeria and Hope Behind Bars Africa, whose partnership and advocacy helped bring the vision for this activation to life.
As the day closed, one thing was clear: the activation may have been for a few hours, but the impact will be lasting.
The Gridiron Gems Initiative continues to grow, creating safe and empowering spaces for girls to learn, lead, shine both on and off the field.
