The North Carolina Courage have officially secured the signature of Nigerian international forward Chioma Okafor, announcing a three-year guaranteed contract that will keep her at the club through the 2028 NWSL season, with an option for 2029.
Okafor arrives on the back of an impressive rise for both club and country. She was part of the Nigerian squad that captured the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title, marking the country’s 10th continental championship. Her move to the Courage also represents her first professional contract following a standout collegiate career at the University of Connecticut.
During her four years at UConn, Okafor recorded 30 goals and 5 assists across 57 appearances, establishing herself as one of the Huskies’ most consistent attacking threats. Her performances earned her multiple honors, including First Team All-Big East selections in each of her final three seasons, and Second Team recognition as a freshman. She was also named a 2024 MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist and earned a place on the 2025 preseason watch list, along with three All-American selections.
Speaking on her move, Okafor expressed excitement about joining the NWSL and the Courage project:
“I am excited to call North Carolina home and sign with the Courage. From the early conversations with the team, I fell in love with the developmental plan they laid out for me and the drive to build back this club’s championship roots. I can’t wait to get to work in 2026.”
Courage Chief Soccer Officer Ceri Bowley highlighted what the club sees in the young forward, praising her attacking qualities and mentality:
“Chioma is a dynamic, fearless attacker whose pace, power, and willingness to take on defenders bring dimensions we’ve been looking to add to our front line. Beyond her on-field qualities, she brings a competitive edge and a growth mindset that fits the culture we’re building.”
Born in Blantyre, Malawi, Okafor was eligible for both Malawi and Nigeria but opted to represent Nigeria through her father. She moved to the United States in 2019, attending the Berkshire School in Massachusetts before heading to UConn.
Player Profile: Chioma Okafor
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Position: Forward
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Height: 5’5”
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Date of Birth: March 20, 2003 (22)
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Hometown: Blantyre, Malawi
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Citizenship: Nigeria
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Previous Club: UConn Huskies (NCAA)
