Early Life and Origins
Ijeoma Esther Okoronkwo was born on March 27, 1997, in Abia State, Nigeria. She grew up in Richmond, Texas, USA, after her family relocated there when she was still young. From an early age, football became her passion. She played in school and community leagues, showing remarkable skills and determination that would later define her professional journey.
Growing up between two cultures, Nigerian and American, shaped her unique perspective and resilience both on and off the pitch.
Education and College Career
Esther attended John and Randolph Foster High School in Texas, where her football talent quickly stood out. She later joined Northeast Texas Community College between 2016 and 2017, playing for the Northeast Texas Eagles.
In 2018, she transferred to Lamar University, playing for the Lamar Lady Cardinals. Her performance there was exceptional. She recorded impressive goal tallies, led her team to victories, and earned several conference recognitions. Despite suffering a serious ACL injury during her college years, Esther made a strong comeback, showing her resilience and discipline.
Her years in U.S. college football helped her develop technically, mentally, and professionally, preparing her for life as an international athlete.
Professional Club Career
After her college career, Esther stepped into professional football with determination.
Her first major move was to AS Saint-Étienne in France, where she gained valuable European experience. Later, she signed for UDG Tenerife in Spain’s Liga F, where she continued to develop her attacking abilities.
In 2025, Esther joined AFC Toronto in Canada’s Northern Super League, a new professional women’s football league. She made an immediate impact, scoring both goals in the club’s first-ever win, a 2-1 victory against Calgary Wild FC.
Her career has already taken her across multiple continents, showing her adaptability, work ethic, and talent as a global footballer.
International Career with Nigeria
Esther made her senior debut for the Nigeria women’s national football team, popularly known as the Super Falcons, on June 10, 2021, in a friendly match against Jamaica.
Her first international goal came on February 23, 2022, during a Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Ivory Coast. Since then, she has grown into a vital part of the national team setup.
At the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Esther was one of Nigeria’s standout players. She scored and provided key assists that helped Nigeria defeat Zambia in the quarter-finals and secure a dramatic comeback victory against Morocco in the final. Her performances earned praise from fans and football analysts worldwide.
Age and Physical Profile
- Date of Birth: March 27, 1997
- Age: 28 years (as of 2025)
- Height: Approximately 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in)
- Playing Position: Forward / Attacking Role
Esther is known for her pace, agility, and finishing. Her ability to play across attacking positions makes her a versatile and valuable player for both club and country.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Esther Okoronkwo’s net worth is estimated to be between $400,000 and $600,000 USD (approximately ₦600 million to ₦900 million Naira).
Her annual salary is estimated at around $80,000 to $120,000 USD, which translates to $6,500 to $10,000 USD per month.
Her income comes from:
- Club salary
- National team appearances and bonuses
- Endorsement deals
- Sponsorship contracts
These figures may vary based on club contracts and performance bonuses, but they reflect her steady financial growth as one of Nigeria’s rising football stars.
Parents and Family Background
Esther Okoronkwo hails from Abia State, Nigeria, but she grew up in the United States.
Information about her parents is not widely publicized, as she prefers to keep her family life private. While some rumors have circulated linking her to former Nigerian footballer Isaac Okoronkwo, credible reports confirm that they are not related.
Her family has been supportive of her journey, encouraging her dreams from her youth to her professional success today.
Personal Life and Husband
As of 2025, Esther Okoronkwo is not married and has no publicly known husband. She is fully focused on her football career and personal development.
Away from football, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Lamar University. She is also passionate about empowering young girls in sports and frequently participates in community development programs.
Playing Style and Strengths
Esther Okoronkwo is a forward known for her:
- Explosive pace and intelligent movement
- Clinical finishing in front of goal
- Precise free kicks and assists
- Ability to perform under pressure
She can play as a central striker or on the wings, providing tactical flexibility for her coaches. Her energy, confidence, and creativity make her one of the most exciting players in African women’s football today.
Achievements and Milestones
- Made her Nigeria senior debut on June 10, 2021
- Scored her first international goal on February 23, 2022
- Represented Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
- Played a key role in Nigeria’s 2024 WAFCON title win
- Joined AFC Toronto in 2025, becoming part of Canada’s first women’s pro league
At only 28 years old, Esther’s story is still being written. Her work ethic and leadership suggest even more success ahead.
Looking Ahead
Esther Okoronkwo’s journey from Abia State to international football is a story of faith, determination, and discipline. As she continues to shine for AFC Toronto and the Super Falcons, she stands as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across Africa.
Her talent, professionalism, and dedication show that dreams can become reality with passion and perseverance.
Top 6 Long FAQs About Esther Okoronkwo
1. How old is Esther Okoronkwo and where was she born?
Esther Okoronkwo was born on March 27, 1997, in Abia State, Nigeria. She is 28 years old as of 2025. She later moved to the United States, where she grew up and began her football career.
2. What is Esther Okoronkwo’s net worth and salary?
Esther Okoronkwo’s estimated net worth in 2025 ranges from $400,000 to $600,000 USD. Her annual salary is believed to be between $80,000 and $120,000 USD, depending on her club contract, bonuses, and national team appearances. She also earns additional income through sponsorships and endorsements.
3. Who are Esther Okoronkwo’s parents?
Esther comes from a supportive family based in Abia State, Nigeria, though she spent much of her childhood in the United States. She keeps her family details private. Rumors that she is related to former Super Eagles defender Isaac Okoronkwo have been dismissed, they are not related.
4. Is Esther Okoronkwo married?
As of now, Esther Okoronkwo is not married. She has not publicly revealed any information about being in a relationship or having a husband. Her main focus is her football career and continuing to improve her professional achievements.
5. Which clubs has Esther Okoronkwo played for, and where does she play now?
Esther has played for several clubs across different countries, including:
- AS Saint-Étienne (France)
- UDG Tenerife (Spain)
- Changchun Dazhong (China)
- AFC Toronto (Canada) – her current club
She currently plays for AFC Toronto in Canada’s Northern Super League, wearing the number 23 jersey.
6. How has Esther Okoronkwo performed for Nigeria?
Esther made her debut for the Super Falcons in 2021 and scored her first goal in 2022. She was one of the standout players in the 2024 WAFCON, helping Nigeria win the tournament. Her performance in the final, where she contributed key assists, proved her value to the national team. She continues to represent Nigeria with pride and consistency.
Conclusion
Esther Okoronkwo’s biography is a shining example of talent, hard work, and determination. From her early days in Abia State to becoming a professional footballer playing internationally, her journey inspires young athletes everywhere.
With her growing fame, leadership, and continued success for both club and country, Esther Okoronkwo is destined to become one of Nigeria’s all-time greats in women’s football.
