Former Super Falcons star and ex-Falconets assistant coach Gift Okunwa-Igunbor has spoken on the growing competitiveness in African women’s football, warning that rival nations are striving to surpass Nigeria’s dominance.

Speaking in a recent interview, she stated the importance of financial motivation, early preparation, and strategic planning to maintain the Super Falcons’ status as African champions.

Okunwa-Igunbor underscored the need to address key shortcomings, particularly the financial incentives that drive young players.

She also called for early preparation and a well-coordinated approach to keep Nigeria ahead in the rapidly evolving landscape of women’s football on the continent.

Okunwa-Igunbor’s Words

“Right now, African countries now, they are all doing now, they want to see that they conquer Super Falcons. But you know, we too, that we are the champion of Africa, we have to put more effort and the early preparation and too, motivation, financial aspect.”

“Because you see these young girls now, they have some money, so we give them this financial aspect, of course we are talking about their sky is their limit, so that nothing can stain us.”

“All Africans now, no any underdog anymore, because everybody want to see, want to go all out and see that they beat Super Falcons.”

“So we are still doing that, we too, we should arrange ourselves, go to the drawing board, what are some lessons that we are not able to put in, we should try as much as possible, in order, so that current concern, we shall be able to see everything through and then make one group for what we want to achieve our aim.”

A Call for Strategic Planning

With African nations stepping up their game, Okunwa-Igunbor revealed the urgency for Nigeria to refine its strategies, support its players financially, and ensure consistent preparation.

As women’s football in Africa continues to evolve, these efforts are crucial for the Super Falcons to maintain their legacy as continental champions.