Women’s football in Nigeria has a proud and dominant history. The Super Falcons remain Africa’s most successful team, and behind that record stand a long line of extraordinary women who carried the game on their shoulders. From pioneers who broke barriers to modern stars redefining what’s possible, these footballers didn’t just play, they inspired. Here are 12 of the best Nigerian female footballers of all time and the legacies they built.

1. Asisat Oshoala

Asisat Oshoala is arguably the face of modern African women’s football. From the dusty pitches of Ikorodu to the grand stages of Europe, she has risen to global acclaim. A six-time winner of the CAF Women’s Player of the Year, Oshoala has played for Liverpool, Arsenal, and currently Barcelona, where she won the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Known for her pace, power, and killer instinct in front of goal, she has carried the Super Falcons on her back at World Cups and African championships. Beyond football, Oshoala is a role model for young girls through her foundation, proving that greatness is built on both talent and purpose.

2. Perpetua Nkwocha

When conversations about Nigerian football legends arise, Perpetua Nkwocha’s name always comes up. A prolific forward, she dominated the African Women’s Championship for years, scoring goals at will. In 2004, she netted four times in the AWCON final against Cameroon, cementing her place in history. She went on to win the CAF Women’s Player of the Year four times, a feat only bettered by Oshoala. Nkwocha played with intelligence and elegance, mixing lethal finishing with unmatched stamina. She later transitioned into coaching, ensuring her influence on the game extends far beyond her playing days.

3. Mercy Akide

Mercy Akide is a pioneer who set the tone for future generations. Known for her speed and clinical finishing, she became the first woman to win the CAF Women’s Player of the Year in 2001. She starred in Nigeria’s early World Cup appearances and was one of the first African women to gain international recognition, playing professionally in the United States. Akide’s journey showed that Nigerian women could thrive on the global stage, and she continues to mentor young talents today.

4. Cynthia Uwak

Few players have combined flair and consistency like Cynthia Uwak. Twice crowned CAF Women’s Player of the Year, Uwak was an unstoppable force for both Nigeria and her clubs in Europe. Her ability to beat defenders, create chances, and score stunning goals made her one of the most feared forwards of her time. She also symbolized resilience, thriving at a time when female players often struggled with limited resources and recognition.

5. Nkiru Okosieme

Nkiru Okosieme belongs to the golden generation of the 1990s. As captain of the Super Falcons, she led by example, combining skill with leadership. She played at Nigeria’s first Women’s World Cup in 1991 and was known for her aerial strength and knack for scoring important goals. Off the pitch, she was an advocate for women’s football, pushing for better conditions and respect for players. Her name remains etched in Nigerian football history as both a leader and a pioneer.

6. Osinachi Ohale

Defenders rarely get the spotlight, but Osinachi Ohale has earned hers. A rock at the back for the Super Falcons, she has represented Nigeria at multiple World Cups and won several Women’s Africa Cup of Nations titles. Her composure, strength, and ability to read the game made her one of the most reliable defenders in African football. Ohale has also enjoyed a strong club career abroad, proving her class across different leagues.

7. Rasheedat Ajibade

Nicknamed “The Girl with the Blue Hair,” Rasheedat Ajibade represents the new generation of Nigerian stars. Currently playing for Atlético Madrid, she is known for her pace, versatility, and flair. Ajibade was one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the 2022 WAFCON and the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where her creativity and work rate caught global attention. Still in her prime, she continues to grow into one of the most exciting African footballers of her era.

8. Chiamaka Nnadozie

Chiamaka Nnadozie is redefining what a Nigerian goalkeeper can be. She burst onto the scene as a teenager at the 2019 World Cup, where her penalty saves and composure won international praise. Today, she plays for Paris FC in France and is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Her reflexes, leadership, and confidence between the sticks make her the backbone of the Super Falcons. At just 24, her best years are still ahead of her.

9. Desire Oparanozie

A proven goal scorer, Desire Oparanozie has been central to Nigeria’s dominance in African football. She has scored decisive goals in multiple AWCON tournaments and has captained the Super Falcons with passion and grit. Oparanozie also played in top European leagues, showcasing her ability to adapt and deliver consistently. Her voice off the pitch, advocating for equal treatment of female players, has also made her a respected figure.

10. Uchenna Kanu

Uchenna Kanu is one of the brightest stars in the new wave of Super Falcons players. With an eye for goals and strong performances in both domestic and international football, she has become a regular name on the scoresheet. Kanu’s exploits with Mexico’s Tigres UANL and the Super Falcons underline her ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. She represents the future of Nigerian attacking football.

11. Ifeoma Onumonu

Though born in the United States, Ifeoma Onumonu chose to represent Nigeria, and her impact has been notable. A strong, versatile forward, she adds depth and quality to the Super Falcons attack. Playing in the competitive NWSL in America, she has brought valuable experience and professionalism into the Nigerian setup, helping to bridge gaps between African and global standards of play.

12. Florence Omagbemi

Florence Omagbemi deserves a place on any list of Nigerian greats. As a player, she won four AWCON titles and captained Nigeria at the 1999 Women’s World Cup, where the Falcons reached the quarterfinals, still the team’s best performance. Later, as a coach, she guided Nigeria to the 2016 AWCON title, making her the first woman to lift the trophy both as captain and coach. Her legacy is unmatched in leadership and longevity.

Conclusion

From the trailblazing exploits of Mercy Akide and Nkiru Okosieme to the modern brilliance of Asisat Oshoala and Chiamaka Nnadozie, Nigerian women’s football is blessed with icons who changed the game. These women not only brought glory to the Super Falcons but also inspired countless young girls across Africa and beyond. Their stories prove that with talent, resilience, and passion, Nigerian women can dominate the global football stage.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

10 Nigerian Footballers Who Have Captained European Clubs