The forward has agreed a contract until 2028, with the option to extend for a further two seasons, marking another significant step in the continued growth of Nigerian talent in European women's football.
“I’m happy! Benfica is a great club — it’s a privilege to be here to help the team win trophies and achieve great things. I want to be part of this family; I’m ready to give my best, help my teammates, and achieve our goals for the season.” — Janet Akekoromowei
Rising Star from the Asisat Oshoala Academy
A product of the Asisat Oshoala Academy, Akekoromowei has enjoyed a meteoric rise. Born on 6 November 2007, she first made her mark in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) with Nasarawa Amazons during the 2024/25 season.
She was named the NWFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) after an outstanding campaign in which she scored 13 goals in 19 appearances, finishing as the league’s second-highest scorer. Her performances included four goals in the Super Six playoff stage.
In 2025, she moved to Bayelsa Queens, where she continued to impress before securing her dream move to Portugal.
International Pedigree with the Falconets and Super Falcons
Akekoromowei has already gained valuable international experience. She represented Nigeria’s U-20 Falconets at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, featuring in three matches.
She has also earned a senior cap for the Super Falcons, making her debut in a friendly against Algeria.
Benfica’s women’s team, six-time Portuguese champions, continue to attract top African talent, following in the footsteps of players like fellow Nigerian international Christy Ucheibe. Akekoromowei referenced Ucheibe’s positive experiences at the club as a factor in her decision.
A Strategic Signing for Benfica Feminino
The move represents a significant coup for Benfica, who have secured one of Nigeria’s brightest young attacking prospects. Akekoromowei arrives in Lisbon with a growing reputation for her pace, finishing, and physical presence, qualities that should suit the demands of Portuguese and European competition.
Benfica will be hoping the teenager can make an immediate impact as they look to defend their domestic title and make progress in European competitions during the 2026/27 season.
The signing has been warmly received by Nigerian football fans, who see it as further validation of the country’s rich pool of female talent and another pathway for young players to showcase their abilities on the global stage.