In a culture where females by their nature are already disadvantaged, though in the recent years frantic efforts are being made to elevate the status of women, and propagate their vital importance to any Nation ready to rise to its potential in development, it is rare to find a Falcon that has risen above cultural restrictions, political realities, overbearing manipulations and regional quagmire to distinguish herself in an area that could easily be termed ‘a male dominated sport’.
This iconic ‘Iron Lady’ and superwoman having made it to the peak of her career and in all honesty deserves all the mentions, celebrations and accolades as has been seen in many quarters around the nation in recent days.
A former Nigerian international, Maureen Mádu is a gem, a national treasure and international prride as she continues to make giant Strides in football development and in propagation of, and discovering of grassroot talents in the country of her birth, Nigeria.
As recognised by the world Football Governing body FIFA, and even in Africa by CAF, In Many of her numerous attainments, she has the honour of these few as captured by our research in past few hours:
✅ Recognised by FIFA to have attained the 100 games caps for her nation.
✅ Former Captain Super Falcons
✅ Former Assistant Coach of the apex Female National Team. (The Falcons).
✅ First Nigeria female coach to coach a Premier League team in Europe. (Avaldnes Football Team in Norway as Assistant Coach and Chief Coach to the Second Team).
✅ First female to take a team, a football academy to a tour and camping abroad
✅ Pioneer owner of Maureen Mmadụ Kiddies Football Academy
✅ Champions of State Aiteo sponsored challenge Cup in Anambra State FA Cup
✅ Qualified her female academy for the National Challenge Cup (Aiteo Sponsored) ahead of the female state league team.
✅ Awarded by several organisations on recognitions for her efforts on the youths and sports development
✅ Single handedly gifted over 320 Soccer balls, jerseys and bags for the Youth Development Programme in Nigeria. (Onitsha)
✅ The Only female appearance in the 2017′ Nation wide viral article “NIGERIANS WHO DISTINGUISHED THEMSELVES COACHING FOREIGN TEAMS” as Published by National dailies.
And Many More….
A smiling, gentle, soft spoken but intelligent lady, who deserves all the accolades and celebrations both in world football circles, FIFA, also Africa CAF and in Nigeria.
She’s a proud servant of the nation and one who has become a true role model for the younger sports women.
Maureen Mádu is a national asset, and one who has always been open for service to her motherland, continent and world of football at Large.
Maureen Mmadụ take a bow….You are the real African Iron Woman!
Written by Ezindu Okay-Lawrence.
Grassroots Development Coach & Instructor,
Administrator and Consultant on Grassroots Sports Development.