The first female football coach in Kano, Hyda Ahmad, has revealed her plans to establish an all-female football team in the state, a move she believes will not only promote women’s participation in sports but also inspire young girls to pursue their passion for football without fear or limitation.

Coach Hyda Ahmad, who has already made her mark by running a successful football academy despite numerous challenges, said the initiative will provide a platform for female players in Kano to showcase their talents, compete at higher levels, and gain opportunities both locally and internationally.

In an exclusive interview with SolaceBase, she spoke about her journey, challenges, successes, and aspirations for women’s football in Kano and beyond.

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Q: How did your journey in football begin?

A: I started playing football in Kano with my brother and his friends on the streets. After finishing school, I moved to Lebanon where I saw many female football teams and players. That inspired me to join them, and gradually, I began to love football.

I later studied courses related to the game, earning a degree in Physical Education, a Master’s in Sports Science, and another Master’s in Psychology to better understand the human body and mind.

When I returned to Kano, I decided to establish my own football academy, Breakthrough Football Academy.

Q: What challenges have you faced in running your academy?

A: The main challenge is the football pitch. Currently, we are managing on a small field that limits the number of players we can take. We hope to acquire a bigger pitch to cater for all age groups. Funding is another challenge, I have been financing everything myself. Despite this, I always look at the positive side and keep going because I believe the future will bring huge rewards.

Q: What successes have you recorded so far?

A: We have achieved a lot within a short time. Personally and collectively, my players have grown in both mentality and physicality. They are also in school, preparing to be self-reliant in the future. We’ve participated in four tournaments: won two, lost one in the final, and we are already in the final of the ongoing one. That keeps us motivated.

Q: How do people in Kano react to you as the only female coach?

A: Honestly, I get massive support. People admire what I’m doing, and there is no stigma or intimidation. My players don’t look down on me because I am a woman, they believe coaching is about competence, not gender.

That is why I chose Kano to start my academy, because I knew the people would support me, and I am very happy about that.

Q: What are your long-term plans?

A: We started this academy just a year ago, but we have big dreams. We want to get a world-class pitch that can accommodate all players, and also create opportunities abroad, especially in Europe, for my players. Most importantly, I am planning to establish an all-female football team in Kano soon.

Q: What message do you have for young footballers, especially girls?

A: My message is simple: never give up. Work hard, be patient, and persevere. Success does not come overnight, but with consistency, the reward will surely come. To the ladies of Kano, I say get ready, because an all-female football team is coming your way very soon.