It's time - Ajibade wants Super Falcons to dominate FIFA Women's World Cup

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has made a passionate call for urgent investment and structural reform in Nigerian women’s football, saying the national team is ready to move from African dominance to global glory, but only with the right backing.

Ajibade made the remarks during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after President Bola Tinubu hosted the team at the State House on Monday.

She emphasised that Nigeria’s 10-time WAFCON champions are no longer content with continental titles alone.

“We want to be global contenders, not just local champions. We have dominated in Africa, and it is time to take it to the world stage,” Ajibade declared.

The Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women’s team, have yet to make a breakthrough at the FIFA Women’s World Cup or the Olympics. Their best World Cup performance remains a quarter-final finish in 1999, and they've never advanced past the last eight at the Olympics.

Ajibade, formerly of Atlético Madrid Femenino, believes the time has come to turn ambition into reality, but only if the NFF, National Sports Commission, and Federal Government rise to the challenge.

“When we talk of support, I mean proper preparation for tournaments, professional conditions for players, and world-class infrastructure. We can become the best team in the world if given the right environment,” she said.

The captain also stressed the need for a sustainable developmental system that not only supports current players but also nurtures the next generation of Super Falcons.

Ajibade said, “We want to create a pathway for the next generation to reach even greater heights. Together, we can show the world that Nigeria is not just a participant in global football, but a leader.”

She described the reception by President Tinubu as a “massive morale boost”, one that has inspired the team to dream even bigger.

“Our vision is bold. We want to become the best women’s football team in the world. Not just to compete, but to win.”

The Super Falcons, 10-time WAFCON champions, have competed in every FIFA Women’s World Cup since 1991.