WAFCON 2025: Former Nigerian senator laments over lack of Hausa/Fulani girls in Super Falcons squad

As the Super Falcons continue their quest for a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, a former Nigerian senator, Shehu Sani, has turned the spotlight on a different issue.

The ex-lawmaker took to Facebook to express concern over what he described as the noticeable absence of Hausa and Fulani girls in the national team.

The former Senator, who hails from Tudun Wada in Kaduna State and attended Kaduna Polytechnic, voiced disappointment at the lack of northern female representation in the current Super Falcons squad.

In a recent Facebook post, he wrote: “Absence of Hausa and Fulani young ladies in the Nigerian National Football Team, the FALCONS is a challenge for them to play football….Please go off TikTok and represent us in the Falcons.”

The politician, who served in Nigeria’s Senate between 2015 and 2019, sparked a debate about the multiple factors that may be hindering young northern girls from pursuing football at elite levels.

Sani also drew inspiration from the Saudi Women’s National Team, also, ironically, known as the Falcons, in his message that religious background or ethnicity should not be a factor in women taking an interest in football.

Meanwhile, the Super Falcons are focused on their football, putting in a strong performance in their WAFCON 2024 opener with a 3-0 win against Tunisia.

Goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and Chiwendu Ihezuo sent a strong signal of intent as Nigeria eyes its 10th continental title.

With Justin Madugu leading the team into their next Group B match against Botswana, the Falcons are carrying the hopes of a nation, and calls for greater inclusivity may soon follow their success on the pitch.