Nigeria’s most-capped female footballer, Onome Ebi, has officially announced her retirement from professional football, bringing an illustrious career spanning more than two decades to an end.
The 42-year-old defender confirmed the decision on her official social media pages on Wednesday, thanking fans, teammates and coaches for their support throughout her journey.
“Today, I officially retire from professional football,” Ebi wrote. “The journey has been filled with challenges, victories, and lessons that shaped me into who I am today. Though I hang up my boots, my purpose in the game continues—to give back, to guide, and to be a voice for players.”
Ebi leaves the game as one of Africa’s most decorated and respected female footballers. She made history as the first African player—male or female—to feature in six FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments, representing Nigeria in 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023.
Since making her Super Falcons debut in 2003, she earned 109 caps, more than any other Nigerian woman, and played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s dominance on the continent. She lifted the African Women’s Championship—now Women’s Africa Cup of Nations—four times in 2010, 2014, 2016 and 2018.
Beyond her achievements on the pitch, Ebi is celebrated for her leadership, resilience and commitment to inspiring younger players. Tributes have poured in from teammates, fans and the Nigeria Football Federation, all hailing her as a trailblazer who set new standards for women’s football in Africa.
Though stepping away from active football, Ebi has hinted at plans to remain involved in the sport through mentorship, advocacy and leadership roles aimed at empowering future generations of players.
Her retirement marks the end of an era for the Super Falcons and African women’s football, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire long after her playing days.
