Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Biography
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Biography: In the ever-evolving world of Nigerian women’s football, one name is quickly rising through the ranks — Folashade Florence Ijamilusi. With powerful finishing, unrelenting ambition, and a dream to win Nigeria’s first FIFA Women’s World Cup, this young striker has already made waves across both club and international football.
In this blog post, we explore Folashade Ijamilusi’s inspiring journey — from grassroots football in Lagos to national recognition, her family background, and her vision for the future.
Folashade Florence’s Early Life and Family Background
Born and raised in Ajah, Lagos State, Nigeria, Folashade Florence Ijamilusi grew up in a humble, football-loving household. She is the only daughter among four brothers, and her early exposure to football came from playing barefoot with them in neighborhood fields.
Initially, her parents—especially her father—weren’t supportive of her football dreams due to traditional beliefs. But her mother stepped in as her biggest supporter, encouraging her to push forward despite financial difficulties. There were times she didn’t have boots or jerseys, yet she never lost sight of her passion.
“I often played with borrowed kits or none at all,” she revealed in a 2024 interview with The Punch.
“My mum’s encouragement kept me going.”
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi’s Early Football Journey
Folashade’s football journey officially began in a local academy in Ajah. Her natural ability as a forward—marked by pace, positioning, and goal-scoring instinct—quickly set her apart.
At just six years old, she was already attracting attention in her neighborhood matches. As her confidence grew, so did her reputation among scouts.
🇳🇬 Rising Through the National Ranks
Nigeria U-17 (Flamingos)
Her first major break came when she was selected for the Nigeria U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos. Her performances were energetic and fearless, earning her praise from coaches and fans alike.
Nigeria Senior Team (Super Falcons)
Folashade first debuted for the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, in 2019, during the Olympic qualifiers. But after a brief spell, she was dropped from the squad and had to wait five years for another chance.
In April 2024, she made a sensational return to the national team, scoring a hat-trick in a 4-1 win against Algeria at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos.
“It was emotional. To score a hat-trick on my return felt like a dream,” she said.
“I’m grateful to Rasheedat Ajibade and others who encouraged me in camp.”Also Read: Diogo Jota (1996–2025) – Biography
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Club Career: From Lagos to League Top Scorer
Edo Queens – NWFL Premiership
Folashade currently plays as a striker for Edo Queens, one of Nigeria’s leading clubs in the NWFL Premiership (Nigeria Women’s Football League).
During the 2023–24 season, she emerged as the joint-top scorer in the league with 8 goals. Her consistency and explosive play helped put Edo Queens in title contention, earning her accolades from fans and pundits.
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Playing Style & Strengths
Folashade is a natural number 9 — a true striker with a poacher’s instinct. Her game is defined by:
Clinical finishing inside the box
Quick positioning and off-ball runs
Strength and body control
Hunger for goals
Mental resilience and discipline
She has credited Asisat Oshoala as her main role model and often styles her hair like Victor Osimhen as a tribute to the Napoli and Super Eagles striker.
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Personal Goals and Ambitions
Folashade is not just satisfied with local success. Her sights are firmly set on the global stage. In her own words:
“I want to play for Manchester United Women, win the African Footballer of the Year, and most importantly, help Nigeria win the first-ever Women’s World Cup.”
She is also passionate about inspiring young girls from humble beginnings to believe in themselves regardless of social or financial challenges.
Also Read: Humaira Asghar (Dolly) Biography, Age, Career, Net Worth, and Social Media Presence
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Role Models and Mentorship
Beyond Oshoala and Osimhen, Folashade looks up to senior teammates like Rasheedat Ajibade, whose mentorship in the national camp helped her regain confidence.
She values teamwork, humility, and learning, making her a perfect fit for both club and country setups.
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Key Highlights at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Folashade Florence Ijamilusi |
| Date of Birth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Hometown | Ajah, Lagos, Nigeria |
| Position | Striker (No. 9) |
| Current Club | Edo Queens, NWFL Premiership |
| Top Achievement | NWFL Top Scorer (2023–24), Hat-trick for Nigeria vs Algeria |
| Dream Club | Manchester United Women |
| Role Models | Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, Victor Osimhen |
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Final Thoughts
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi represents the new generation of Nigerian female footballers — bold, skilled, and ready to make history. From playing barefoot on the streets of Ajah to scoring hat-tricks for the Super Falcons, her journey is proof that dreams backed by discipline and support can become reality.
As she continues to break boundaries and inspire young African girls, Folashade remains a beacon of hope in Nigerian sports.
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi (FAQ)
Who is Folashade Florence Ijamilusi?
Folashade Ijamilusi is a professional Nigerian footballer who plays as a striker for Edo Queens in the NWFL Premiership and the Nigeria women’s national team (Super Falcons).
Where is she from?
She hails from Ajah, Lagos State, Nigeria. She grew up in a football-loving household with four brothers and a very supportive mother.
What position does she play?
She plays as a central striker (number 9) known for her goal-scoring ability and movement in the box.
What club does she play for?
Folashade currently plays for Edo Queens, a top-flight women’s football team in the Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL).
How many goals did she score in the 2023–24 NWFL season?
She scored 8 goals, finishing the season as joint top scorer in the NWFL Premiership.
Has she played for the Nigerian national team?
Yes. She made her debut for the Super Falcons in 2019 and returned to the squad in 2024, where she scored a hat-trick against Algeria in a friendly match.
What are her football dreams?
Her ultimate goals are to:
Play for Manchester United Women
Become African Footballer of the Year
Help Nigeria win the FIFA Women’s World Cup
Who are her role models?
She looks up to Asisat Oshoala, Victor Osimhen, and Rasheedat Ajibade for their professionalism, style, and leadership.
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi Conclusion
Folashade Florence Ijamilusi is more than just a rising football star—she’s a symbol of resilience, passion, and Nigerian pride. From humble beginnings in Ajah to national stardom, her journey reflects the power of determination and belief.
As she continues to dominate the NWFL and make her mark with the Super Falcons, there’s no doubt that Folashade’s story is far from over. With dreams of playing in Europe and lifting trophies for Nigeria, she is an inspiration to a new generation of girls who dream of playing football on the world stage.
Keep an eye on her, because the name Ijamilusi is one we’ll be hearing for years to come.
