In what is fast becoming a golden chapter in the history of Nigerian women’s football, former Super Falcons legend and coach, Florence Omagbemi, has named Esther Okoronkwo as her top pick for this year’s African Footballer of the Year award — and for good reason.

Esther Okoronkwo’s story is as inspiring as her football. Born in Abia and raised through Nigeria’s grassroots system, she has become the shining light in the Super Falcons’ latest success story. From humble beginnings to continental dominance, the 26-year-old forward has proven to be more than just a rising star — she’s a game changer.

At the recently concluded Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, Okoronkwo delivered a tournament to remember. Her brilliance in the quarterfinal against Zambia — one goal and two assists in a 5-0 rout — was just a preview. She saved her masterpiece for the final. Against the host nation, Morocco, she scored from the spot, assisted Folashade Ijamilusi’s equaliser, and curled in a sublime free-kick that set up Jennifer Echegini’s late winner. Her magic lifted Nigeria to a dramatic 3-2 comeback and secured the Super Falcons a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

Watching from her base in the United States, Omagbemi, Nigeria’s only woman to win the WAFCON as both player and coach, was full of praise.

> “Esther Okoronkwo was the stand-out player of the tournament,” Omagbemi told The Guardian. “Her composure, vision, and determination reminded me of the legends before her — from Uche Echaria and Mercy Akide, to Perpetua Nkwocha and Asisat Oshoala. She’s next in line to lead the Super Falcons into a new era.”

But Omagbemi didn’t stop there. She also saluted other key players like Rasheedat Ajibade and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, whose performances solidified Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football.

On a broader note, she commended President Bola Tinubu for his unprecedented reward package for the team — including national honours, 3-bedroom homes in the Renewed Hope City, and cash prizes.

> “This is the biggest reward ever for any Super Falcons squad,” Omagbemi said emotionally. “How I wish we had this kind of recognition in our playing days. This gesture will inspire a new generation of young girls to believe in football.”

As the Super Falcons continue to shine, Okoronkwo’s emergence feels like the dawn of a new era. She is not only tipped for the African crown, she’s becoming the new face of Nigerian football — fearless, graceful, and full of promise.