National Teams
‘Most female footballers fear marriage’ – Four-time WAFCON winner reveals untold pressure
As Nigeria prepares to defend its Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) crown in Morocco, one of the country’s most decorated female footballers, Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, has delivered a passionate appeal for greater support and respect for women balancing motherhood with professional football.
The four-time African champion believes deeply rooted societal attitudes continue to discourage female footballers from getting married or starting families, warning that many players fear motherhood could effectively end their international careers.
Speaking after returning to the Super Falcons setup earlier this year following the birth of her son in 2024, Okobi said female athletes in Nigeria are too often judged unfairly once they become wives or mothers.
“Motherhood should not be the end of anyone’s story,” the 32-year-old said.
“Nigerians, especially many fans, feel that once a woman gets married or gives birth, she is old and no longer has the strength to compete. They keep making us feel bad about ourselves.”
Okobi, who won WAFCON titles with Nigeria in 2010, 2014, 2016 and 2018 and earned 75 international caps, admitted the criticism directed at her following her recall by Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu was disappointing.
She believes those perceptions have created anxiety among younger players, many of whom now postpone major life decisions out of fear of losing their place in the national team.
“Most of the girls are scared to get married because they think they won’t be called up anymore,” she explained.
“Being a footballer doesn’t stop me from being a wife. It doesn’t stop me from being an athlete or a career woman.”
Okobi’s own comeback has become a powerful example of determination and resilience.
After giving birth, she resumed training just five months later, acknowledging the enormous physical challenge of regaining full fitness after pregnancy.
“It was tough and it took a long time to get myself back,” she admitted.
“My teammates encouraged me throughout that difficult period. Having a child didn’t take away my ability; it only affected my fitness.”
Her return was aided by the unwavering support of her husband and family, whom she credits with making it possible to pursue her career while embracing motherhood.
“My husband wants me to continue doing what I love,” she said.
“He never wanted me to stop playing because I gave birth. Every day I see my son, he motivates me to work even harder because I want him to watch me play football.”
The midfielder also contrasted her experiences with what she witnessed during a spell in Sweden, where she saw a teammate continue training while pregnant before successfully returning to competitive football.
According to Okobi, the difference lies not in physical capability but in the support systems available to female athletes.
While FIFA has introduced maternity regulations guaranteeing paid leave and protection from discrimination, implementation remains inconsistent across many African countries where women’s football continues to battle structural and cultural challenges.
Although Okobi narrowly missed out on Nigeria’s final squad for the 2026 WAFCON, she insists representing her country remains one of the greatest honours of her career.
“I always love representing Nigeria. Whether I’m playing or not, I will continue supporting the Super Falcons because it is my team.”
Her views have also received backing from Super Falcons assistant coach Ann Chiejine, herself a former international who successfully combined motherhood with elite football.
Chiejine stressed that family support remains crucial for women seeking to continue their careers after childbirth.
“Without God and a supportive family, it becomes very difficult,” Chiejine said.
“You have to plan properly, but women should never feel they must choose between having children and playing football.”
As the Super Falcons pursue a record-extending 11th African title in Morocco and aim to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, Okobi hopes her own journey will inspire the next generation of Nigerian footballers.
Her message, however, extends beyond football.
She believes changing attitudes toward women requires the active involvement of men, particularly husbands and family members, whose encouragement can make the difference between a career ending prematurely and one reaching even greater heights.
“You have to support your wife,” Okobi said.
“No matter what she needs, stand by her. You’re the ones who can help us continue doing what we love while also fulfilling our dreams in life.”
