Football star Folashade Ijamilusi: "It’s time for Nigeria to contest the biggest tournaments - the World Cup and Olympics"

Folashade Ijamilusi’s tinted hair makes her instantly recognisable on the field. But defenders shouldn't look too long. With deceptive pace, the Nigerian football star often leaves the opposition trailing as she powers toward the goal.

Off the pitch, the People's Republic of China-based player exudes warmth, eloquence, and grace; her quiet confidence perfectly mirrors the commanding presence she brings to the game.

This humble nature perhaps stems from Ijamilusi’s upbringing on the sandy streets of Lagos, Nigeria, where she played against boys despite her father’s initial disapproval.

“It was glaring that I could actually progress in the sport,” Ijamilusi told Olympics.com.

With the help of her grassroots coach, the prodigy eventually earned his support.

“I was playing behind his back,” she laughs. “But we got him on board. Eventually, I was allowed to continue playing.”

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Folashade Ijamilusi's glittering junior resume

Ijamilusi's talent quickly drew attention. She joined the Springsoca Football Academy, progressed to the Lagos State women’s team, and was selected for Nigeria’s U-17 squad at the 2017 Women’s World Cup in Jordan. She later joined FC Robo Queens, won gold at the 2019 African Games with the U-20 team in Rabat, and overcame injuries to become the top scorer in the 2023/2024 National Women’s Football League (NWFL) season.

In 2024, Ijamilusi signed with Edo Queens, won the WAFU-B tournament, and competed in the CAF Women’s Champions League. That same year, she earned her Super Falcons call-up, scoring a hat-trick against Algeria in a friendly. She went on to sign with Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng in China.

Ijamilusi wasn't motivated to achieve these accolades by money or fame. She pursued football as a means to change her life.

“I believed it was a path set for me by God,” she says. “Watching men’s football and seeing the passion it inspired made me believe I could earn that love too.”

Ijamilusi's experience in the Chinese league has been transformative. “The culture shock was immense, but the people are respectful and welcoming. The football is tough and competitive, Asia’s top level.

“I’ve immersed myself in this challenge. Whatever team I play for, I give 100 per cent. If other opportunities come, I’ll embrace them, but for now, my heart is in China.”

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For Ijamilusi, WAFCON 2024, played in 2025, and scoring one of the goals in the final that took her team from 2-0 to 3-2 up was a particularly special moment, but not one she wants to rest on for too long.

“We had to be professional amidst the pressure. I’m happy it was me who scored the equaliser, but I’d have been just as happy if it was someone else," she said.

“I was in a buoyant mood just being selected. I had no idea I’d play such a major role. That goal still gives me goosebumps.

“We’ve been hosted by the country, private organisations, and the federal government. I’ll celebrate with my family once the season ends.

“It gave me joy and satisfaction. Coming out tops as champions, it’s just the beginning."

Ijamilusi's ambitions are clear: she wants to represent Nigeria at the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the LA 2028 Olympics. “Those tournaments have always been my aim,” she explained.

Another ambition the attacker wants to fulfill is winning the African Women’s Footballer of the Year award.

“Watching Asisat Oshoala win it six times has always motivated me. I want to give myself that opportunity.”

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