Super Falcons captain Rashidat Ajibade has declared Nigeria “100 per cent ready” for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while calling on supporters to once again play their part as the team begins the defence of its continental crown.
Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s Group C opener against Malawi in Morocco, Ajibade said the atmosphere within the squad reflects the determination of a team focused on retaining the title and securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“The team spirit is high. Everyone is fully focused. We know why we’re here and we are ready to take things one step at a time,” she said.
“We’re 100% ready.”
Nigeria head into the tournament as Africa’s most successful women’s national team, with the Super Falcons targeting a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
READMORE: Pre-match conference: “We are here to defend the trophy and qualify for the World Cup” – Madugu
While expressing confidence in the team’s preparations, Ajibade stressed that success would require unity on and off the pitch, reserving special praise for the supporters whose backing she believes inspired the team’s previous triumph.
“Our fans are always coming out in numbers. They’re always cheering us on the field and on social media,” she said.
“We see their support, we see their love. Their support was instrumental to the last victory we had.”
The captain urged Nigerians at home and abroad to once again rally behind the team throughout the competition, insisting their encouragement provides an extra source of motivation for the players.
“We want them to replicate the same energy even double it because we need that energy to keep raising the standard and keep flying the flag of our nation high.”
“Keep cheering us, keep supporting us, and keep praying for us. We’ll make them proud as always.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Ajibade and her teammates begin their WAFCON 2026 campaign against Malawi before facing Zambia and Egypt in the remaining Group C fixtures, with Nigeria aiming to make another successful run at the continental title while booking a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
