Former Nigeria forward Desire Oparanozie says the country's football federation (NFF) has "not done enough" to ensure its women's team remain ahead of their competition in Africa.
The Super Falcons opened their bid for a record-extending 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) title with a 3-0 win over Tunisia on Sunday.
Oparanozie lifted the trophy four times, including the most recent triumph in 2018, and thinks other countries have gained ground on the West Africans.
"A lot of teams have invested so much in their women's football - financial investment, facility investment - whatever it takes to make sure that you improve," Oparanozie told Newsday on the BBC World Service.
"We can see that it's getting to pay off, so no team is going to be a pushover.
"For Nigeria to get to that 10th title they have to put on a show to really get it. It's no longer going to be a walk in the park."
Oparanozie, who had spells with clubs across Europe and in China, sees plenty of areas where the NFF can improve.
"I think the governing body haven't really done enough to actually make sure that the other African teams don't catch up with the Nigerian team," the 31-year-old said.
"They need to do better in every aspect.
"You can't boast of any standard structure when it comes to the football field. Facility-wise, we are lacking in that area.
"In terms of pay, I'm a big advocate on equal pay for women's football.
"And even if we can't get equal pay, whatever is due to the players… if it's peanuts, give it to them. You need to prioritise players' health as well."
