Flying Falcons SC were crowned champions of the Aya Women's Socca League after winning a tense final against Dream Girls SC via penalty shootout. The victory marked the conclusion of the third edition of the grassroots tournament, which brought together six women's teams from across Lagos for a season of weekly five-a-side matches. Aya Care, the league's sponsor, covered all training and operational costs, enabling greater participation by removing financial barriers for players. More than ₦500,000 in cash prizes and rewards were distributed throughout the season, including awards for top performers and team incentives.
The league, organised in partnership with The HIVE Leagues, has grown into one of Lagos' most prominent platforms for women's grassroots football. Players engaged in structured competition, building both athletic and community ties through the sport. Aya Care co-founder Inya Ajanaku described the initiative as an extension of the company's mission to support women beyond healthcare. "Too many women in Lagos want to play sport, stay active, compete and build confidence but lack access, funding or safe organised spaces," Ajanaku said. "This is much bigger than football."
Aya Care, known for its sanitary products designed for African women, has expanded into broader women's empowerment efforts, including sports development and period poverty interventions. Henry Koko, co-founder of The HIVE Leagues, praised the players' commitment and the high level of competition. "We're proud to help create the structure and platform for these women to compete consistently," Koko said. "The energy, commitment and talent we've seen this season have been incredible." The league continues to gain traction as a growing space for women's football in Lagos.
Flying Falcons won the title, but the real focus remains on Aya Care's role in funding the entire league, exposing how far grassroots women's football must go to achieve financial independence. Without corporate backing, the competition would not exist, revealing the fragility of women's sports structures in Lagos. No Nigerian or African player was specifically highlighted beyond local team participation.
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