From Ikorodu to the International Stage: Local Talents Fly Nigeria’s Flag at Cheetah Cup 2026

 From Ikorodu to the International Stage: Local Talents Fly Nigeria’s Flag at Cheetah Cup 2026

Ghana — The journey from the football fields of Ikorodu to the international stage is becoming a reality for eight promising young female footballers, who are currently representing FEFCAN Ladies at the Cheetah Cup 2026 in Ghana.

The players — Adedeji Kehinde, Adepitan Oluwabusayo, Olabinjo Habibat and Atinumo Ifabukade of Ablaze Amazons; Nurudeen Aliya and Joseph Favour of Unizee Shilas; and Aduku Esther and Omogbulegbe Caroline of SLAS Tigers — earned places in the selected FEFCAN squad and are now competing on an international platform.

Their selection represents a significant moment for women’s football in Ikorodu, showcasing the growing depth of talent within the local football community. What began on grassroots pitches has now taken these players across the border to Ghana, where they are testing themselves against emerging talents from across the region.

More Than Just Club Representation

Although the eight players come from three different Ikorodu-based clubs, their mission in Ghana goes beyond representing their individual teams.

They are part of FEFCAN Ladies, representing Nigeria at the Cheetah Cup, making their participation an opportunity to showcase Nigerian women’s football on an international stage.

For Ablaze Amazons, the selection of Adedeji Kehinde, Adepitan Oluwabusayo, Olabinjo Habibat and Atinumo Ifabukade further highlights the club’s contribution to the development of young female footballers and their progression to higher levels of competition.

Unizee Shilas are represented by Nurudeen Aliya and Joseph Favour, while SLAS Tigers have Aduku Esther and Omogbulegbe Caroline in the squad.

Together, the players carry the pride of their clubs, FEFCAN Ladies and the wider Ikorodu football community while flying the Nigerian flag in Ghana.

A Familiar Face in the FEFCAN Delegation

The Ikorodu connection extends beyond the players.

Olalekan Job, Team Manager of Ablaze Amazons, is also part of the official delegation leading the FEFCAN squad at the Cheetah Cup.

His presence further highlights the important role of local administrators, coaches and football stakeholders in creating opportunities for grassroots players to gain valuable international exposure.

A Proud Moment for Ikorodu Football

The presence of eight players from Ikorodu at an international tournament is more than an individual achievement. It is a reflection of the quality of talent emerging from the community and what can be achieved when young footballers are given the right opportunities and platforms.

From local pitches in Ikorodu to the international stage in Ghana, these players are carrying a story of talent, opportunity, determination and representation.

As the Cheetah Cup 2026 continues, the football community in Ikorodu will be watching with pride as their own compete on the international stage — not only for their clubs and FEFCAN Ladies, but also for Nigeria.

From Ikorodu to Ghana. From grassroots football to the international stage. The journey is only beginning.