‘Football was my safe space’ – Rasheedat Ajibade opens up on Childhood struggles, football journey

Rasheedat Ajibade has opened up about the difficult journey that shaped her football career, revealing that a desire to change her family’s circumstances and the encouragement of her coaches kept her motivated despite growing up with limited support.

The Super Falcons captain made the heartfelt remarks while reflecting on her childhood and the sacrifices made by her family during her rise to becoming one of Nigeria’s biggest female football stars.

Mother later became one of her biggest supporters

Ajibade explained that although her mother was not always able to accompany her to training or sporting activities while she was growing up, she eventually became one of her strongest supporters.

She recalled how her mother visited her in France last year, staying for about two months to watch her play after she had already established herself professionally.

“My mum came to France last year and stayed with me for about two months to visit and watch my games,” Ajibade said via The Lagos Voice.

Responding to a question about who motivated her when her mother could not always be present, the Nigerian international said her determination was largely driven by the desire to improve her family’s situation.

According to Ajibade, her parents were focused on providing for the family, making it difficult to accompany her to sporting activities.

She explained, “In Nigeria, we don’t really have the culture where parents go to sports centres with their children, as you see in Europe.

“Maybe it happened out of ignorance, but we also came from a less financially privileged family. My parents had to go out and work to provide for us, while I also had to go out and play football.”

The captain said football quickly became more than just a hobby.

She said, “The motivating factor honestly came from a place of survival. You want to make a difference.

“I naturally loved football, and it became my safe space from when I was about six years old. I also realised I could play well against the people around me.”

Ajibade also paid tribute to the coaches who believed in her talent and encouraged her to continue pursuing the sport at a time when many girls were discouraged from playing football.

When asked if anyone specifically urged her to keep playing, she credited her youth coaches for giving her confidence.

“Our coaches did that,” she said.

She added, “They did their best in encouraging us and developing us as players. Some of those coaches are here today, and I’m grateful for everything they did.”