Super Falcons forward Chioma Okafor has opened up about her next move after celebrating a historic WAFCON 2024 win with Nigeria.
The 22-year-old, who was born to a Malawian mother and Nigerian father, recently made the bold decision to reject Malawi’s call-up and pledge her future to Nigeria.
Despite not playing a single minute at the tournament in Morocco, she now has a WAFCON winners medal around her neck — and a big plan ahead.
Why She Chose Nigeria Over Malawi
Okafor admitted it wasn’t an easy decision to pick Nigeria. In a chat with reporter Ademola Victor, she said the choice came after deep thinking and a strong desire to challenge herself in a tougher football space.
“Playing for Nigeria wasn’t an easy decision,” she said. “I took the time to think about it. I didn’t want to make the easy choice. I wanted to be around players who are better than me, to grow in a strong team.”
She made it clear that her parents didn’t push her either way. “None of my parents influenced my choice. They respected my decision, and I take full responsibility for it.”
Even though she didn’t step on the pitch during the WAFCON, the experience meant everything to her. She described her teammates as warm and supportive.
“They’ve been very welcoming. Since the first day I arrived in camp, it felt like I had 23 big sisters who looked out for me. I can’t thank them enough.”
Okafor’s joy doubled after lifting the trophy with Nigeria in Rabat, where they beat hosts Morocco to win the title. “I made the right choice, I know. I’m just happy, I’m ecstatic,” she said.
She also shared how proud her family was after the win. “My mother was dancing. She was so happy. It’s moments like these that make everything worth it.”
With WAFCON behind her, Chioma is now looking ahead. She plays college football for the University of Connecticut in the United States and is currently in her final year.
“I definitely want to play professionally,” she said. “I haven’t decided yet if I’ll stay in the US or go to Europe. But when offers come in, I’ll take it from there.”
For now, she’s focused on finishing her degree. “I just want to complete my final year. That’s my main goal at the moment.”
Until then, the young forward plans to soak in the joy of Nigeria’s WAFCON success when the team returns home.
