CAF honours Onome Ebi as WAFCON’s all-time record holder

Nigeria’s Onome Ebi has been celebrated by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as an exceptional figure in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. A mainstay at the centre-back position, she now holds the record for most appearances in the tournament, featuring in seven editions from 2008 through 2022.

CAF praised her enduring presence: “In the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, few players can compete with the longevity and impact of Onome Ebi. An emblematic central defender of Nigeria, she remains the most capped player of the tournament”.

Her record is impressive: participating in seven tournaments, winning four titles (2010, 2014, 2016, 2018) and serving as a defensive pillar for more than 15 years. Known for her tactical awareness, leadership and composure, she has earned immense respect on and off the pitch.

Reflecting on her contribution in 2018, Ebi stated: “Each African Cup has its own requirements. It’s never a formality, even for a team like Nigeria”. By the time of her final appearance in 2022, she had over 100 caps for the Super Falcons, played at five FIFA Women’s World Cups and led by example as the team’s elder stateswoman. ”

As the oldest member of the group, I had a moral duty: to motivate the young people, to set an example. You don’t stay in the national team with your past, you stay there with your rigor,” she said.

Despite not claiming the title in her last tournament in Morocco, her legacy shines as a testament to loyalty, excellence and longevity in African women’s football.

Editorial

We hold deep admiration for Onome Ebi’s journey. Her consistency across seven WAFCON editions is a rare achievement, signalling both physical resilience and mental fortitude. We believe her career exemplifies what it means to lead through action and integrity.

We observe how she evolved from a promising talent into a mentor. Her commitment to setting standards not, as she put it, relying on her past achievements but on her rigorous presence offers a masterclass in longevity. Teams build legacies when players like Ebi bridge eras, inspiring both peers and successors.

We also recognise the broader impact. Ebi’s rise highlights the growing prominence of women’s football in Africa. Her trailblazing six World Cup appearances another record for any African player draw attention to Nigeria’s role in elevating global visibility for women athletes.

We feel her influence extends beyond defensive duties it shapes aspiring young footballers. When coaches and federations celebrate players like her, it deepens investment in women’s grassroots programmes. Her career encourages administrators to prioritise continuity and mentorship in team building.

We began by applauding Ebi’s achievement we close with reaffirming belief in the transformative power of her example. She is more than a defender she is a blueprint for greatness in African football.

Did You Know?

1. Ebi was born on 8 May 1983 in Lagos and currently plays for Abia Angels in the Nigerian Women Football League.
2. She became the first African footballer, male or female, to feature in six FIFA Women’s World Cups (2003–2023).
3. Her club career spans multiple countries: Nigeria, Sweden, Turkey, Belarus, China and Spain.
4. While at FC Minsk, she won both the Belarusian Premier League and national cup titles twice.
5. At age 40, she earned the nickname “Mama” within the Super Falcons squad for her nurturing leadership role.