Super Falcons defender Onome Ebi has officially retired from professional football, ending a 23-year career that established her as one of Africa’s most accomplished players.

Ebi, 41, confirmed her decision on Tuesday in a statement.

“Today, I officially retire from professional football. The journey has been filled with challenges, victories, and lessons that shaped me into who I am today. Though I hang up my boots, my purpose in the game continues — to give back, to guide, and to be a voice for players,” she said.

The centre-back made her senior debut for Nigeria in 2003 and went on to represent the country at six FIFA Women’s World Cups — the most appearances by any African player, male or female. She was also part of several Women’s Africa Cup of Nations-winning squads and earned over 100 caps for the Super Falcons.

Ebi played at the 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023 World Cups, becoming the first African to feature in five tournaments in France 2019 before extending that record to six in Australia and New Zealand four years later.

Her club career took her across 10 teams in Europe, Asia and Africa, underscoring her reputation as one of Nigeria’s most consistent professionals.

Globally, she joins Brazil’s Marta, Canada’s Christine Sinclair and Japan’s Homare Sawa as the only players to appear at six Women’s World Cups.

Ebi’s retirement closes the chapter on a career defined by longevity, leadership and record-breaking achievements, while reinforcing her place among the all-time greats of African women’s football.