By Oluwashina Okeleji BBC Sport, Lagos

Nigeria's Mercy Akide will not be at the African Women's Championship

Former African Footballer of the Year Mercy Akide has opted out of the Nigeria's squad for the fifth African Women's Championship.

The 31-year-old striker, who only recently got a recall to the team after a two-year absence, says her decision stems from the poor attitude of the Nigerian officials.

Akide told BBC Sport that she will now concentrate on her club career with United States W-league side Hampton Roads Piranhas.

"It's a shame that two weeks after I read about my invitation on the internet, no official invitation letter has come through from Nigeria," the striker said.

"If the coaches and FA official consider us [together with her team-mate and former Nigerian skipper Florence Omagbemi] important for the Super falcons our invitation letter should have gotten here by fax.

"Sadly, it is now too short notice to start running around to organise my release for a trip to Nigeria, which means I have no option than to forget about the AWC.

"The way football is run in the country is unbelievably abysmal, however, I wish the girls in camp all the best of luck," she added.

Coach Effiom Ntiero told BBC Sport that he is equally disappointed: "I was looking forward to having her here for this championship; I did all I could to ensure her an invitation got to her.

"I am disappointed with this but I believe the girls here will do well. I agree with her that is a short time to plan her trip. I will make sure they [Akide and Omagbemi] get a chance at the All African Games."