Young Al-Imam Aishat Aramide made her historic debut as an official in a football match on Saturday, August 17, during the Kwara Kiddies League encounter between Koller Football Academy and Afrikan Kiddies.
In the match, Koller Football Academy secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Afrikan Kiddies, continuing their pursuit of the league title alongside defending champions KFA.
Aishat, a 13-year-old Senior Secondary School (SSS 1) student at Productive Model College in Ilorin, served as the second assistant referee. Her debut marked her as the youngest-ever match official in the Kwara Kiddies League and in the history of competitive football in Kwara State.
Spectators and assessors at the game praised Aishat for her decision-making and positioning throughout the match, applauding her calmness and professionalism.
Mr. Ibrahim Jatto, Chief Operating Officer of the Kwara Kiddies League, commended Aishat’s performance, highlighting her composure despite the intense atmosphere.
He described her officiating as outstanding and noted that her emergence is one of the benefits of the league, which is not only developing young players but also creating opportunities for aspiring coaches and referees.
Jatto emphasized that the Kwara Kiddies League provides a platform for young talents across all aspects of the game, helping them improve and develop their skills for professional-level football.
Aishat’s impressive debut signals a bright future, not just for her but for the league’s mission of nurturing the next generation of football professionals.