Top 10 Best Female Footballers In Nigeria

In the vibrant tapestry of global women's football, Nigeria has consistently stood out as a powerhouse, producing a remarkable array of talented players who have made their mark both domestically and on the international stage. From electrifying forwards to commanding defenders, these athletes have not only elevated the profile of women's football in Nigeria but have also inspired generations with their dedication, skill, and passion for the beautiful game.

Nigeria's passion for football transcends borders, and its female players have played an integral role in the nation's sporting narrative. The top 10 female footballers featured in this article represent a diverse array of talents, each contributing their unique strengths to the teams they represent. From the nimble footwork of Asisat Oshoala to the tenacious defending of Onome Ebi, these athletes have proven their mettle time and again, earning recognition not only within their home country but also on the global stage.

This article takes an in-depth look at the inspiring journeys, accomplishments, and impact of Nigeria's top female footballers. Their stories resonate far beyond the pitch, reflecting resilience, determination, and the power of pursuing one's dreams against all odds. As Nigeria continues to foster its rich footballing tradition, these athletes serve as role models for aspiring young players and contribute to the ongoing evolution of women's football on a worldwide scale.

Best Female Footballers in Nigeria

• Asisat Oshoala
• Desire Oparanozie
• Onome Ebi
• Francisca Ordega
• Rita Chikwelu
• Ngozi Ebere
• Osinachi Ohale
• Halimatu Ayinde
• Rasheedat Ajibade
• Evelyn Nwabuoku

1. Asisat Oshoala

Asisat Oshoala is a Nigerian forward known for her incredible speed, agility, and goal-scoring ability. She gained prominence playing for various Nigerian clubs before making her mark on the international stage. Oshoala's performances led her to play for Barcelona's women's team, where she became the first African woman to score in a UEFA Women's Champions League final.

Furthermore, Asisat is ranked not only as one of the best female footballers in Nigeria but as well as one of the greatest African female footballers of all time and one of the best in the world, and one of the most celebrated of all time.

2. Desire Oparanozie

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Desire Oparanozie is a strong and versatile forward who has represented Nigeria's national team for years. Her powerful shots and physical presence make her a formidable opponent for any defense. Oparanozie played for clubs in France's top women's league and contributed significantly to her teams' successes.

Additionally, she had been a part of Nigeria’s women’s team since 2010, while, appearing in the FIFA women’s world cup 4 consecutive times, from 2011-2023. During her time with the Super Falcons, in which she made 35 appearances, she netted a total of 22 goals, coming behind Asisat Oshoala who had the most goals.

3. Onome Ebi

Onome Ebi is a seasoned Nigerian defender with a wealth of experience. Known for her excellent defensive skills and ability to read the game, Ebi has played for both Nigerian and international clubs. She's one of the longest-serving members of the Nigerian women's national team and has consistently demonstrated leadership on and off the field.

Ebi, who is currently playing in the Spanish league for FC Levante Las Planas, is the only African player male or female to have appeared in the FIFA World Cup tournament six consecutive times from 2003 to 2023. In addition, she made 103 appearances for Nigeria and scored 3 goals in all on the national level along with tons of awards to her collection.

4. Francisca Ordega

Francisca Ordega is a skillful winger known for her dribbling and playmaking abilities. She's played for both domestic and international clubs, including Washington Spirit in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States. Ordega's speed and creativity have made her a valuable asset to Nigeria's national team.

5. Rita Chikwelu

Rita Chikwelu is a talented midfielder known for her vision, passing accuracy, and defensive contributions. She has played for various clubs in Sweden and Spain, showcasing her ability to control the midfield and dictate the pace of the game. Chikwelu's leadership and experience have made her an integral part of Nigeria's midfield lineup.

6. Ngozi Ebere

A versatile defender known for her speed and tactical awareness, Ngozi Ebere gained recognition for her performances both in domestic leagues and on the international stage. She represented Nigeria in several major tournaments, showcasing her defensive prowess and ability to contribute to attacking plays as well.

7. Osinachi Ohale

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A reliable defender, Osinachi Ohale's consistency and strong defensive skills have made her a crucial asset to Nigeria's national team. She has competed in multiple FIFA Women's World Cup tournaments and has displayed her dedication to maintaining a solid defensive line.

8. Halimatu Ayinde

Halimatu Ayinde is a midfielder celebrated for her energetic and dynamic style of play. With her strong work rate and ability to control the midfield, she has been a key contributor in both domestic leagues and international matches for Nigeria.

9. Rasheedat Ajibade

A young and promising talent, Rasheedat Ajibade quickly rose through the ranks due to her impressive skills as a forward. Her speed, dribbling ability, and goal-scoring prowess have marked her as one to watch for the future of Nigerian women's football.

Rash plays for the Atlético Madrid side on the Spanish as the team forward. Ajibade was named the first on the list of the top promising young African footballers. In addition to playing for the Spanish side, Rash has won numerous awards for her brilliancy on the pitch, such as Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Top Scorer, and Nigeria Women’s Premier League Top Scorer among the many awards in her collection.

10. Evelyn Nwabuoku

An experienced midfielder known for her leadership qualities, Evelyn Nwabuoku has been a vital presence in Nigeria's national team. Her tactical awareness, passing accuracy, and ability to dictate the pace of the game have contributed to her success both domestically and internationally.

In conclusion, the Nigerian female football scene boasts a remarkable group of talented players who have made significant contributions both domestically and on the international stage. From versatile defenders like Ngozi Ebere and Osinachi Ohale to dynamic midfielders such as Halimatu Ayinde and experienced leaders like Evelyn Nwabuoku, each player brings a unique set of skills to the field.

Rasheedat Ajibade stands out as a promising young forward, showcasing the potential for the future of Nigerian women's football. Collectively, these players have represented Nigeria in various tournaments and have earned recognition for their dedication, skill, and passion for the game.