Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene has expressed joy over her return to the Super Falcons following a lengthy spell away from the national side.

The midfielder last represented Nigeria at the 2022 edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and was subsequently left out of the squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The 32-year-old, who plays for Ottawa Rapid, later stepped away from football due to pregnancy and childbirth.

She recently received a surprise call-up for Nigeria’s double-header friendly matches against Cameroon, marking her first invitation in years.

Okobi-Okeoghene said she feels honoured and grateful for the opportunity to rejoin the team, adding that she is focused on taking things gradually as she eases back into international football.

“I’m excited and happy to be back with the team. I’m grateful and honoured. For now, I just want to take things one step at a time,” she said.

Addressing reactions on social media, the midfielder noted that she remains unfazed by criticism, emphasizing that her journey through motherhood has been a blessing rather than a setback.

Okobi-Okeoghene has earned 27 caps for the Super Falcons over the course of her international career.