The Soho24 Foundation is set to use a novelty football match and a two-week skills acquisition programme to promote the empowerment of girls through sports, education and vocational training.
The initiative will culminate in a match against the National Council for Women Societies on October 8 at the Soho24 Foundation Sports Park in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child.
According to the foundation, more than 400 girls are expected to benefit from sports, education, mentorship and vocational training. The programme is being held ahead of the official International Day of the Girl Child observance on October 11.
She said the initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals on quality education, gender equality and reduced inequalities.
The girls, particularly students from Kado-Kuchi Senior Secondary School, Mabushi Senior Secondary School and the Kado-Kuchi-Jahi community in the Federal Capital Territory, will participate in a two-week skills programme.
According to the foundation’s Media Head, Louis Udeh, the participants will receive training in painting, catering, tailoring and hair braiding. Products created during the training will also be displayed at an exhibition.
Lecturers and medical professionals are expected to educate the girls on health, personal safety, body awareness and general wellbeing.
Opara said the foundation also supports boys and girls through its wider sports programmes. She disclosed that more than 40 boys are currently housed, fed and trained in football and sports performance, with some already securing opportunities outside Nigeria.
She identified funding as a major challenge, particularly for athletes requiring support for travel, healthcare and accommodation.
Opara urged government institutions, corporate organisations and individuals to support initiatives aimed at tackling school dropout, poverty, discrimination and early child marriage while expanding opportunities for vulnerable young people.
