“There Is An Urgent Need To Invest In Women’s Football” — Ex-Super Falcons Judith Nneka Chime

“There Is An Urgent Need To Invest In Women’s Football” — Ex-Super Falcons Judith Nneka Chime

By Faith Akindele

Former Super Falcons goalkeeper Judith Nneka Chime has called on fellow ex-footballers to take an active role in the development of grassroots football in Nigeria, with a special emphasis on women’s football.

Speaking in an exclusive conversation with Faith Akindele (Mr Stereo), Chime emphasized that true progress in the sport begins at the foundational level.

Chime, a distinguished member of Nigeria’s national women’s football team who represented the country at the 1998 & 2000 Nation's Cup, the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2000 Summer Olympics, reflected on the challenges of her playing days.

“We played for the love of the game,” she recalled.

“There were few financial incentives then, but our passion for football and the dream to make history fueled us. I’m grateful we were able to lay the groundwork for future generations.”

Now based in the United States, Chime was honoured last year with a prestigious award recognizing her philanthropic efforts toward the African child.

Her contributions include an annual cash prize awarded to the Best Goalkeeper in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), a personal initiative she funds out of her deep commitment to nurturing talent at the grassroots level.

“Football runs in my DNA,” Chime said.

“Giving back to society is a calling I have embraced wholeheartedly. My hope is that more ex-footballers will rise to this cause and play a part in developing our young athletes, especially young girls who aspire to play professionally.”

Chime also praised recent strides made by the current Super Falcons coaching crew under Coach Justin Madugu.

“I am particularly pleased to see a growing number of home-based players being invited to the national team. This not only strengthens our domestic league but also enhances the visibility and vibrancy of women's football across Africa.”

As a celebrated icon and advocate for women’s sports development, Judith Nneka Chime’s call to action is both timely and powerful.

Her words underscore a critical truth: the future of Nigerian football lies in nurturing its roots—especially in creating equal opportunities for young girls to rise through the ranks.