After years away from the national spotlight, experienced midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene is back in the Super Falcons fold, while dynamic forward Gift Monday also returns as head coach Justine Madugu unveiled a 25-player squad for upcoming international friendlies against the Cameroon women’s national football team.
Their return has instantly become the biggest storyline from the squad announcement, symbolizing both experience and renewed attacking firepower as Nigeria intensifies preparations for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
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Okobi Return Brings Experience And Leadership
For Okobi, the call-up marks a significant moment in her international career.
The Canada-based midfielder has been absent from the team for a couple of years, but her recall signals a renewed trust in her leadership qualities, composure, and vast tournament experience.
Okobi has long been known for her ability to control midfield tempo, break opposition attacks, and provide tactical discipline. Her return adds a valuable layer of maturity to a squad that blends youth with seasoned internationals.
For many fans, her inclusion feels like a reunion with one of Nigeria’s most dependable midfield generals.
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Gift Monday Back With A Point To Prove
Equally compelling is the return of Gift Monday, who missed Nigeria’s victorious Women’s AFCON campaign in Morocco last year.
Now based in the United States, the forward has continued to develop into a sharp, versatile attacker known for pace, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing.
Her comeback provides Madugu with more attacking options and increases competition in a forward line already led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade and supported by established stars like Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo.
For Monday, the invitation represents an opportunity to reclaim her place and make a strong statement ahead of the continental tournament.
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Strong Squad Built Around Balance
While the spotlight shines on the returning duo, the squad retains a strong core of experienced players, including goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Osinachi Ohale and Ashley Plumptre, and midfielders Halimatu Ayinde and Christy Ucheibe.
Madugu has also included fresh talents such as Precious Christopher, Oloko Fatima from Abia Angels and first-time invitee Comfort Erhabor, highlighting his long-term vision for the team.
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Crucial Tests Against Cameroon
Nigeria will face Cameroon twice in Yaoundé, with matches scheduled for February 28 and March 3.
The fixtures serve as vital preparation ahead of the Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the top four teams will secure qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The recall of Okobi and Monday sends a strong message about depth, competition, and continuity within the Super Falcons.
It also reflects Madugu’s strategy of blending experience with emerging talent as Nigeria aims to maintain dominance in African women’s football.
For supporters, their return brings both nostalgia and excitement, offering hope that the team will enter the continental tournament stronger, more balanced, and fully prepared.
The Super Falcons Full Squad
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton Hove & Albion, England); Comfort Erhabor (Portsmouth Ladies, England); Fatima Oloko (Abia Angels); Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels)
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy); Michelle Alozie (Olivia Wynn, USA); Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia); Glory Ogbonna (FC Kiryat Gat, Israel); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey); Sikiratu Isah (Bnot Netanya, Israel); Chidinma Okeke (Club America, Mexico)
Midfielders: Halimatu Ayinde (Christian Lundstrom, Sweden); Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene (Ottawa Rapids, Canada); Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA); Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint Germain, France); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal); Precious Christopher (Yanga Princess, Tanzania)
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint Germain, France); Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Gift Monday (Washington Spirit, USA); Joy Omewa (Nottingham Forest, England); Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada); Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China); Omorinsola Babajide (AS Roma, Italy)
