Hundreds of women across Lagos have taken to the football pitch in recent months through the Aya Women’s Socca League, a female-focused grassroots initiative sponsored by Aya Care and organised by The HIVE Leagues in partnership with Socca Naija.
Now in its third year, the competition has continued to establish itself as one of Lagos’ leading platforms for women’s grassroots football, bringing together players from different parts of the city to compete, train and build community through sport.
This season featured six clubs competing weekly in the rapidly growing five-a-side Socca format, with Aya Care covering training, match participation and league operational costs to reduce financial barriers facing women in organised sports.
Flying Falcons Crowned Champions
The season ended with a thrilling final between Dream Girls SC and Flying Falcons SC, with the Flying Falcons emerging as champions after a dramatic penalty shootout.
More than ₦500,000 in cash prizes and rewards were distributed throughout the season, including team prizes, weekly player awards and individual recognition incentives.
Organisers said the investment reflects Aya Care’s broader commitment to supporting women beyond healthcare products by actively funding opportunities that empower women through sports and community development.
“This Is Bigger Than Football” — Aya Care
Speaking on the initiative, Aya Care co-founder Inya Ajanaku described the project as part of the company’s mission to support women’s wellbeing and ambition.
“For us, this is much bigger than football,” Ajanaku said.
“Too many women in Lagos want to play sport, stay active, compete and build confidence but lack access, funding or safe organised spaces. Aya exists to support women beyond period care, and this league is one of the ways we invest directly into women’s wellbeing, ambition and community.”
Aya Care is widely known for its ultra-thin sanitary pads designed for African women, but the company has increasingly expanded into women empowerment initiatives, including sports development, period poverty intervention and community-based programmes.
Growing Platform for Women’s Football
Co-Founder of The HIVE Leagues, Henry Koko, praised the quality and commitment shown by players throughout the 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.”
With interest in women’s football continuing to grow both globally and within Nigeria, Aya Care says it plans to sustain investments in programmes that create opportunities for women to play, lead and thrive on and off the pitch.
