Aisha Falode (born in Edo State, Nigeria) is a distinguished sports journalist, broadcaster and football administrator who has shaped the landscape of women’s football in Nigeria and beyond. She currently serves as Chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) and in 2025 she received a landmark appointment to the FIFA Standing Committee on Media and Communications, making her one of the highest-ranking Nigerian women in global football governance.
Aisha Falode Education and Early Career
Falode grew up in a large family and attended Abaraka College of Education where she obtained her NCE in Physical and Health Education, then earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from the University of Lagos and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Mass Communication.
She began her professional life working briefly with the Graduate Telephone Operators Scheme at Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) before moving into sports journalism. Her early broadcast work included anchoring and producing the TV sports show Women on the Ball on African Independent Television (AIT).
Aisha Falode Major Life Events
Falode entered the male-dominated world of sports journalism when women rarely occupied visible roles in Nigerian sports media. She worked hard to establish credibility, starting on the field covering matches and gradually becoming a leading voice in football reporting.
In January 2017, she was inaugurated as Chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League Board, putting her at the forefront of women’s football administration in Nigeria.
Her career reached new heights in October 2025, when she was appointed to the FIFA Standing Committee on Media and Communications, an historic achievement reflecting her global recognition and leadership.
Aisha Falode Professional Achievements
Falode has repeatedly broken ground in sports media and administration. As a journalist and broadcaster, she reported on major FIFA tournaments, anchored live sports programming and used her platform to advocate for women’s inclusion in sport.
As Chairperson of the NWFL, she implemented structural reforms to improve contracts, governance and visibility of women’s football clubs in Nigeria.
In her latest role at FIFA, she joins the Media and Communications Committee, placing her among the top decision-makers shaping global football’s media strategy and communications approach. This marks her as a key link between Nigerian football and the global stage.
Aisha Falode Personal Life
Falode hails from Edo State and grew up in a polygamous home with many siblings. She has spoken about the challenges of rising in her career and the extra effort required for women to succeed in sports media. While she keeps much of her personal life private, her public persona is defined by discipline, resilience and a passion for football and media excellence.
Aisha Falode Legacy and Impact
Through her work, Aisha Falode has become a trailblazer for women in Nigerian sports journalism and football governance. She has opened doors for female voices in a space historically dominated by men and has helped raise the profile of Nigerian women’s football within Africa and globally. Her appointment to FIFA underscores the significance of her contribution and sets a benchmark for future generations of African sports leaders.
Conclusion
Aisha Falode’s journey reflects the power of perseverance, skill, and vision. From student athlete to field reporter, to media pioneer to global football executive, she has shown that barriers can be broken. Her career exemplifies how purpose and excellence can create change in sport, media and leadership. As she continues to operate at the highest levels of football governance, her influence is likely to endure and inspire many who follow.
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