In Kwara, a Muslim-majority state in north-central Nigeria, young women are challenging cultural norms by engaging in football despite societal disapproval. Among them is 17-year-old Maryam Muhammed, who practices at the Model Queens Football Academy in Ilorin while facing community criticism for her choice to play in modest attire. Despite the challenges and disapproval, she is determined to pursue her passion for the sport. Her mother, Kehinde Muhammed, supports her ambitions, creating custom hijabs to match team jerseys and emphasizing the importance of modesty. The football community in the region, represented by figures like coach Muyhideen Abdulwahab, is striving to shift perceptions regarding women’s participation in sports. While grassroots initiatives are emerging, female involvement in football remains limited in Ilorin compared to regions with more established infrastructure and support.
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