Unlike past Wafcons when Nigeria had little time to prepare, Madugu and his coaches have enjoyed a longer build-up with several friendlies to assess the squad.
A double-header with Cameroon early in the year was followed by two tune-ups against Senegal in June and a win over Tanzania last week.
Among the new additions is 21-year-old goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor, who serves as Nnadozie’s understudy.
Born in the Netherlands and raised in England, she earned her first cap against Cameroon.
Erhabor says she values the faith Madugu shows in young players and felt welcomed by the group from the start.
She plays for Portsmouth in England’s third tier, just over an hour along the south coast from Brighton, where Nnadozie is based. Calling Nigeria’s number one a big-sister figure she often spends time with, Erhabor says choosing Nigeria was an easy decision grounded in her heritage.
She adds that her love for the culture—and the team’s openness about Christianity and religion—made it a welcoming, faith-friendly environment where she can express herself.
As Madugu blends youth with experience, Omewa refers to the established stars as “golden,” crediting them for paving the way and teaching the next generation.
One of those mentors is fellow striker Oshoala, chasing a fifth Wafcon title, whom Omewa regards as a remarkable guide who openly shares her experiences.
Nigeria are not at full strength, with centre-back Ashleigh Plumptre—so influential in last year’s campaign—sidelined by a foot injury.
The squad has also dealt with off-field disruption after thefts following their arrival in Morocco, with forward Esther Okoronkwo—player of the match in last year’s final—reportedly losing hundreds of dollars.
This year’s prize fund has doubled, with champions earning $2m (£1.5m), reflecting the continued rise of women’s football across Africa.
Even with stiffer competition, Nigeria remain the benchmark and the side everyone is aiming to beat.