Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), making her one of the most recognized African sportswomen both on and off the pitch. The announcement was made in Rabat, Morocco, ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The 30-year-old striker, known for her achievements in global football, is now being celebrated for her work beyond the field, especially in supporting young girls and women across Africa.
CAF described Oshoala as “a beacon of hope for millions of African girls”, praising her journey from the streets of Lagos to becoming a household name in women’s football.
Through her Asisat Oshoala Foundation, the Super Falcons forward has empowered hundreds of young girls by offering them access to education, football training, and mentorship.
For Oshoala, this new appointment is more than just a personal win — it is a platform to push for bigger changes in women’s sports across Africa.
“This is not just an honour; it’s a responsibility,” Oshoala said. “I will keep working to make sure young girls across Africa believe they can achieve anything.”
Her foundation continues to run youth programmes, football camps, and scholarship opportunities aimed at supporting girls from underprivileged communities. By combining sports with education, Oshoala believes young women can rise above limitations and dream bigger.
The appointment fits into CAF’s Women’s Football Development Programme, which targets a 30% increase in female participation in football across the continent by the year 2030.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe applauded Oshoala’s leadership, describing her as a true ambassador for African football and a role model for upcoming athletes.
“Oshoala’s story shows what is possible when talent meets opportunity. She continues to inspire millions and shows what African women can achieve,” Motsepe said.
This announcement comes at a critical time, as the 2024 Women’s AFCON approaches. CAF believes that appointing high-profile figures like Oshoala will help raise the profile of the tournament and attract more young girls to football.
The appointment has been met with wide celebration back home in Nigeria.
President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, said it is a proud moment for the country.
“Asisat has always represented Nigeria with excellence, humility, and class. This appointment is well-deserved and shows how highly she is regarded, not just for her football but for her character,” Gusau said.
Leading Nigerian sports fans and analysts have also praised Oshoala’s continued commitment to using her platform for positive change.
Oshoala’s efforts have not gone unnoticed globally. Brands such as Nike and GSMA congratulated her, describing her as one of the strongest voices for youth empowerment and equality in sports.
Even as she currently plays for Al Hilal in the Saudi Women’s Premier League, her impact continues to be felt across the globe. Her move to Saudi Arabia marked another first, as she became one of the few African female players to sign with a major Middle Eastern club.
Oshoala’s appointment as Goodwill Ambassador comes just as she prepares to lead the Super Falcons at the Women’s AFCON in Morocco — a tournament she has helped Nigeria win several times in the past.
From winning multiple CAF Women’s Player of the Year awards to lifting trophies in Europe with clubs like Barcelona, Oshoala’s football career has been nothing short of remarkable.
But beyond the goals and medals, it is her heart for community service and advocacy that is earning her even greater respect.
Her journey from playing barefoot on the streets of Lagos to gracing some of the biggest football stadiums in the world is a story of grit, resilience, and purpose.
Oshoala’s appointment as CAF Goodwill Ambassador is more than symbolic. It is a recognition of her work, her voice, and her desire to see more African girls follow in her footsteps — not just in football, but in life.
As the Women’s AFCON 2024 draws closer, her presence will surely draw more attention to women’s football, especially among young fans across the continent.
“If my story can inspire even one girl to chase her dreams, then I know I’m doing something right.”
With this new role, Asisat Oshoala has once again shown that true greatness goes beyond football. It lies in lifting others up along the way.
