Former Super Falcons and Falconets assistant coach Gift Okunwa‑Igunbor has warned that workload alone will not sustain Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football. Speaking on the continent’s rising standards, she urged a strong emphasis on harmony and early preparation ahead of upcoming major competitions.
Okunwa‑Igunbor pointed out that many African nations are now determined to dethrone the Falcons, and so Nigeria must invest beyond effort—into strategic planning and solid financial backing for its players. “Right now, African countries… want to see that they conquer Super Falcons. But… we have to put more effort and… early preparation and… motivation, financial aspect,” she stated.
She underscored the need for consistent incentives to help emerging players remain focused. Since young athletes today are more aware of their value, she argued, they require more than just sporting promises. Okunwa‑Igunbor insisted Nigeria must “go to the drawing board” and refine tactics if the Falcons are to stay ahead in a fast‑evolving African scene.
Drawing attention to the shift in women’s football, she urged the federation to prioritise resources, structure their camps meticulously, and reward players appropriately. With rivals growing stronger and investing in development, Igunbor believes Nigeria must accelerate its own reforms or risk losing its continental supremacy.
Editorial
We believe this should serve as a wake‑up call. Hard training is non‑negotiable, but without proper team cohesion and strategic clarity, it becomes rote repetition. The Falcons have long relied on talent and athleticism—now they must layer that foundation with fine‑tuned team unity and financial fairness.
We must insist on well‑funded preparations that start early. Players deserve certainty stable contracts, timely allowances and access to high‑performance support. Such backing not only motivates them, but reassures them that their commitment is reciprocated. A team united by trust creates cohesion on and off the pitch.
We call for detailed strategic planning: tailored camps, performance analytics, injury prevention and mental‑health support. As opponents grow more organised, Nigeria’s response cannot be ad hoc. It must be disciplined, day‑in, day‑out.
Finally, we urge accountability from administrators. We expect resources to translate directly into player welfare and technical refinement. Live updates on camps, pay schedules and strategic benchmarks would bolster public confidence. Only through transparent investment can the Falcons protect their legacy.
If we bind hard work to preparation, planning and reward, the Falcons will not merely survive they will reassert their dominance across Africa and beyond.
Did You Know?
- The Super Falcons are the most successful women’s team in Africa, claiming 11 of the first 13 WAFCON titles.
- Nigeria last failed to reach the WAFCON semi‑final stage in 2022, finishing fourth behind Zambia.
- Ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Falcons conceded just one goal across two qualifying matches versus South Africa.
- Former Falconets such as Comfort Folorunsho and Shukurat Oladipo have recently been integrated into the senior team, reflecting a youth‑focused selection shift.
- As of late 2024, midfielder Edna Imade emerged as Liga F’s December Player of the Month after netting 11 goals in just 18 matches.
