As the 2025 NWFL Championship edges closer, all eyes are turning to Mushin, Lagos, where one of the competition’s youngest and most determined squads is preparing for battle. Ghetto Tigers, led by their Chairman, Azeez Mustapha, are embracing the underdog tag with pride as they set their sights firmly on one of the four promotion tickets to the elite NWFL Premiership.
With an average age of just 15, the Ghetto Tigers Ladies represent the future of women’s football in Nigeria. Their story is one of resilience, community loyalty, and a fearless drive to compete at the highest level despite financial and infrastructural hurdles. In an exclusive conversation, Azeez Mustapha shared insights into the club’s mission, unique philosophy, and readiness for the season.
“Our immediate goal is to pick one of the four available promotion tickets,” Mustapha explained. “We are throwing everything humanly possible to achieve that. Long-term, our vision is to become a household name in Nigerian women’s football and to use our platform to project these ladies into global limelight.”
For a team rooted in the bustling Odi Olowo, Mushin, the ambition reflects not just footballing aspirations but also the hunger of a community eager to see its daughters rise.
Unlike many clubs in the NWFL Championship that rely on established or experienced players, Ghetto Tigers pride themselves on their youthful identity.
“Majority of our players are extremely young, unknown to many, but extremely talented and determined to make a name for themselves. I kid you not,” Mustapha said.
The squad’s youthfulness, while a challenge, is also their biggest asset. With players groomed from age eight, the Tigers are not only technically gifted but also loyal to the club’s vision and ready to punch above their weight.
Despite concerns that injuries could derail preparations, Mustapha revealed that aside from one key player, Ewetade Rofiat, the team boasts a clean bill of health. “Players are roaring to go,” he confirmed.
Interestingly, the club has adopted a unique tactical approach dubbed “Pretentious Conservatism.” While Mustapha kept details of the system close to his chest, he admitted that the injury to the pivot player in this formation is a concern. Nevertheless, reinforcements in midfield provide optimism.
“Nobody knows anything about my midfielders, which is the best situation one can wish for few days to a major competition,” he added.
Among the promising talents, the spotlight shines on the club’s teenage captain and set-piece specialist, Rokibat Egberongbe. Heading into her second Championship season, Egberongbe embodies the grit, leadership, and potential that Ghetto Tigers hope will carry them to historic promotion.
But Mustapha insists that every player is ready to leave a mark:
“All players are prepared to register their names on the national female football map.”
Financial limitations remain the biggest hurdle for Ghetto Tigers, as with many privately run clubs in Nigeria’s women’s football system.
“Government-owned teams have all the support they need,” Mustapha acknowledged. “But we won’t be ruling out the challenge of Imo Striker either, especially after our last encounter with them.”
Despite these challenges, Mustapha remains undeterred.
“We embrace the underdog status and will punish our opponents in the league. Promotion is the target.”
The Tigers’ fans, both in Mushin and beyond, are considered a backbone of the club.
“We play through our fans and enjoy them because they always believe in us. Even when results are not in our favour, they keep cheering,” Mustapha said warmly.
To keep them engaged, the club organizes games at home and away, while also building interactive channels for feedback and involvement.
“We believe in you as you always trust us. We will not let you down. We won’t give in in the proverbial ‘group of death,’” Mustapha assured supporters.
For Mustapha, the NWFL Championship is vital for the growth of women’s football in Nigeria.
“It’s not for the weak. Only the strong survive. Imagine preparing for 10 months and knowing promotion depends on just three or four matches.”
He also praised the NWFL for conducting the draws virtually.
“Due to the circumstances, it was the best decision. It enhances transparency and helps teams plan logistics. But going forward, I’d like to see more real-time involvement of participating clubs.”
Ultimately, Ghetto Tigers’ journey is about much more than results on the pitch. It is about developing a club where every player aspires to be, while also creating a platform for young girls in Mushin and across Nigeria to dream big.
Mustapha’s closing words reflect both optimism and conviction:
“I want to build a club every player would want to play in, while developing players that every team wants to have.”
With determination, youthful energy, and the spirit of Mushin behind them, the Ghetto Tigers Ladies are ready to roar in the 2025 NWFL Championship.
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