Ahong Mary, a Nigerian female footballer currently playing for Naja FC of Cotonou in the Benin Women’s Championship (the top flight of women’s association football in Benin), had an exclusive interview with futebol.com.ng during her holiday in Lagos, Nigeria.
Ahong Mary is a ball-playing centre-back that can also play as a fullback and as a defensive midfielder.
The former Abia Angels player spoke about her journey to Naja FC, how the season went for her, and her dream to play for the Super Falcons of Nigeria.
“We all know it is important for footballers to always play competitive football, whether they are male or female players. I had the chance to join Naja FC last year, and I capitalised on the opportunity because I saw it as a new challenge in a new environment with a new set of people with one goal, which was to win the Benin Women’s Championship and to qualify to represent the country in the CAF tournament.”
“Although, like I said, our goal as a team was to win the championship, we ended up finishing in 3rd position. But personally, I think I had a close to perfect debut season in Naja FC, playing 17 league games out of 18 league matches in a new environment, culture, and language. And I started all 17 games to the glory of God.”
“Yes, I still have a contract with Naja FC, which I respect a lot. I signed a two-year contract with the club, and I don’t have any regrets. Football is about movement; definitely if I see a better offer now, I will leave, but for now I’m still a player of Naja FC, and I respect that.”

“Of course, yes, if I see a team in Nigeria that is interested in me, I will be glad to join them if I listen to their project and it suits me. There are big teams in Nigeria that play continental football, so I would love to join such teams.”
“Life in Nigeria is different from life in the Republic of Benin—the language, culture, and their foods. But I think I adapted well in my first season because I don’t eat their food often because I ensure I always cook Nigerian foods.”
“It will be a dream come true to play for the Super Falcons of Nigeria. I have always loved to wear the green and white jersey of Nigeria. The Super Falcons of Nigeria are the biggest brand in Africa when it comes to women’s football, but if I have the opportunity to play for the Benin Republic Women’s National Team, I will definitely not reject that offer.”
“Smile… I did not score any goals this concluded season, but I think I will work on it in the coming season; I only provided three assists.”