By Daniel Edu
Veteran Super Falcons captain Onome Ebi has made a significant move to Naija Ratels FC of Abuja in preparation for the 2023-2024 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) season, scheduled to commence on November 15. Ebi, who has participated in six FIFA Women’s World Cups, was officially introduced at a ceremony in Abuja by Naija Ratels’ management.
Naija Ratels, a rapidly rising club, earned promotion to the prestigious NWFL in 2021. The 40-year-old experienced defender, who led the Super Falcons at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, expressed her happiness at returning to the local league after more than a decade playing abroad.
Ebi specifically chose Naija Ratels because it is one of the youngest teams in the league with excellent organization and discipline, despite receiving offers from both local and foreign clubs following her performance in the World Cup. Her decision to return to the league aligns with her childhood desire to mentor young talents and contribute to the growth of women’s football in Nigeria.
Ebi explained her choice: “I didn’t just decide today to join them; I have had it in mind. My plans before getting to this stage were that I want to give back to Nigerian football. I left the league 10-11 years ago, but before leaving, I saw the struggles in the league. When I went abroad, I saw how foreign leagues are organized, and I said to myself that before I retire, I will definitely come back. Not only to give or support but to play with the youngest team so these young ones can get the opportunity I didn’t have.”
Paul Edeh, President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF), described Ebi’s move as a game-changing decision aimed at celebrating Nigerian football legends and altering the perception of the league. He emphasized the need to motivate young players and encourage them to aspire to play for the Super Falcons and compete internationally.
Edeh announced that RSDF would take over the payment of Ebi’s salary from Naija Ratels and revealed a substantial monthly salary of N 1.5 million for the Super Falcons captain, making her the highest-paid NWFL player. He reiterated RSDF’s commitment to collaborating with NWFL management and other stakeholders to develop women’s football in Nigeria.
Nkechi Obi, Chairperson of NWFL, also present at the unveiling, noted that Ebi’s signing would add more glamour to the league as they strive to elevate the NWFL to a higher level. She highlighted NWFL’s growth strategy for 2023 and beyond, called “Women’s Football Rising,” as a platform to drive the league’s development.
Onome Ebi’s illustrious career has seen her play for clubs in Spain, Turkey, Sweden, Belarus, China, and other countries.
