Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to ensure the team receives full backing as they prepare for next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria will begin its quest for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title on July 6, 2025, with an opening Group B match against Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The team will also face Algeria and Botswana in what is expected to be a competitive group phase.
While Ajibade remains confident about the squad’s readiness and ambition, she didn’t shy away from calling for improved support from the football authorities — a message that echoes ongoing frustrations among players over poor treatment and lack of adequate preparation in previous tournaments.
“There’s a lot of confidence in camp and we’re committed to our goal. We all understand what’s at stake,” Ajibade said on The Super Falcons Show.
“Every player heading to the tournament wants to compete and win. We will give everything on the pitch, but we also know that success depends on both internal and external factors.
“We’ll continue to do our part as players, but we hope everything behind the scenes is properly handled to help us perform at our best and ultimately bring the trophy home.”
Ajibade’s remarks come at a time when several senior players have publicly criticised the federation for years of neglect and inadequate welfare, warning that off-the-pitch issues could again undermine the team’s performance on the big stage.
Nigeria remains Africa’s top-ranked women’s team, but their dominance is increasingly under threat.
South Africa’s Banyana Banyana is the current titleholder and will be seen as Nigeria’s biggest rival. Hosts Morocco, one of the last African teams to beat the Falcons, will also be formidable opponent.