As the Super Falcons begin their campaign at the 2024 (2025?) Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), my attention is not just on their performance, but on the lady leading the team, Rasheedat Ajibade.
At 24, she represents a generational shift in the Super Falcons. She blends experience with the evolving demands of modern football. And while she may not possess the vocal or flamboyant leadership style of some of her predecessors like Onome Ebi and Desire Oparanozie, her quiet, efficient approach could be exactly what this squad needs at this critical time. It is why she has been preferred for the armband ahead of the more flamboyant and decorated Asisat Oshoala.
A leadership built on hard work
Ajibade’s leadership credentials are not built on media soundbites or dressing room speeches. Instead, they are grounded in her consistent work ethic and professionalism. Those who follow her career closely, from her early days at FC Robo in Lagos to her current spell at Atlético Madrid, will recognise a player who has steadily developed through sheer discipline and commitment.
In Spain, Ajibade has become a key figure for Atlético, contributing both as a goal scorer and a hardworking team player. Her ability to adapt, coupled with her willingness to do the less glamorous work, tracking back, pressing, and supporting teammates, has earned her the respect of coaches and peers alike.
For the Super Falcons, that work ethic translates into stability. With the team undergoing a period of transition, having a captain who leads by example on and off the pitch is invaluable.
Faith as a source of stability
Another defining feature of Ajibade’s leadership is her strong religious faith. In a squad that has faced its share of challenges, from administrative disputes to disappointing performances on the African and world stage, her spiritual grounding provides a stabilising influence.
Ajibade’s social media presence often reflects this Christian faith, with regular posts referencing her belief in God’s guidance. It is not performative as those close to her describe it as central to how she approaches both football and life. At a time when Nigerian football needs more steady, focused leadership, this quiet confidence, rooted in something deeper than the game itself, can have a unifying effect.
But it can also be divisive in a country with other religious faiths, where religion has become politicised. But she has remained strong and unafraid to share her beliefs, despite having a Muslim first name, she has boldly proclaimed her Jesus connection on her undershirt.
A changing of the guards
Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football is no longer guaranteed. It was painfully obvious at the last WAFCON where we finished fourth. Reigning champions Banyana Banyana, in particular, have emerged as credible challengers, while Morocco’s recent investments have made them a team to watch. Zambia have their powerhouse attackers in Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji.
The Super Falcons can no longer afford to rely solely on their history.
In this new, more competitive environment, leadership is critical — not just to manage egos, but to foster discipline, cohesion, and focus. Ajibade’s appointment signals a recognition that modern leadership is as much about reliability and consistency as it is about charisma.
Will the real Ajibade rise up?
Of course, wearing the armband comes with its own pressures. Ajibade will be judged not only by her performances but by how effectively she can rally the squad when adversity inevitably strikes. C
This year’s WAFCON offers Nigeria both an opportunity to reassert our continental dominance and a platform for leaders like Ajibade to emerge. For the Super Falcons, success in Morocco may depend not just on talent, but on the steady, consistent leadership their captain provides.