President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Monday, rolled out red carpets for Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, following their triumphant outing at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The Super Falcons, who clinched their historic 10th WAFCON title on Saturday, were received at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where President Tinubu showered them with accolades, national honours, and generous rewards.
At a lively reception held in their honour, the President conferred on each of the 24 players and the 11-member technical crew the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). He also announced a cash reward of $100,000 (₦152 million) for each player and $50,000 (₦76 million) for every technical crew member.
The President further directed that each team member be allocated a three-bedroom apartment under the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
While addressing the team, President Tinubu said: “You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable.
“You have inspired me, too. And it’s great for a nation to have assets that are the hope of today, tomorrow, and the day after. You represent that hope. You ignited that hope. And we will continue to encourage you, the next generation, and other generations after you.”
He recalled watching the final match with anxiety and excitement: “Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want to have high blood pressure. But people came in and turned my TV on that channel. When it was 2-0, I got very offended and restless.
“But I was still watching with the spirit of resilience, determination, and courage. And after that penalty, my strength was lifted, and I believe that of the nation was lifted too.
But you almost made me angrier because your mother (the First Lady) was in the kitchen, nearly abandoning my dinner. She doesn’t watch the game except when the girls are playing. And at the end of the final whistle, it was joy all over the country.”
President Tinubu pledged continued investment in women’s football and sports development across the country, describing the team’s story as one of hope and resilience.
“Your story is a story of hope. And in this era of Renewed Hope, we celebrate you not just as champions of Africa, but as champions of the Nigerian dream,” he said.
In addition to the federal government’s support, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), led by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, also announced a ₦10 million donation to each player and team official, on behalf of the 36 state governors.
First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was equally full of praise for the Super Falcons, describing them as role models and symbols of excellence.
“You played with passion, confidence, and an unshakeable belief in yourselves—that it is not over until it is over,” she said. “The zeal you displayed on the pitch was nothing short of inspirational. You never wavered and reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”
Speaking on behalf of her teammates, Captain Rasheedat Ajibade expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and all Nigerians, dedicating the victory to the country.
“Today, I stand before you not just as the captain of the Super Falcons, but as a proud daughter of Nigeria, carrying the dreams, resilience, and spirit of our great nation,” said the captain.
“On behalf of my teammates, coaches, and technical staff, I express our heartfelt gratitude for this warm reception and the unwavering belief you have shown in us.”
Ajibade dedicated the win to the President and the dreams of young Nigerians everywhere.
She said, “This victory is not just a trophy. It is a testament to the unyielding spirit of Nigeria. It is a celebration of every young girl in our villages, towns, and cities who dares to dream…This 10th title is for you, Mr. President, for Nigerians, for Super Falcons, and for every young child who believes and dreams to be on this stage someday.”
She also called for continued support to raise the standard of women’s football in Nigeria and take the country to global prominence.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, lauded the victory as a symbol of national unity and proof that sports can bring Nigerians together.
“The Super Falcons’ triumph is a fruit of your unwavering support for sports and women. You have always believed that sports can unite us, heal us, and uplift our spirits as one of the major drivers of the economy. And today, we have seen it happen,” he said.
The reception ended with celebrations and photo sessions.
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