President Tinubu Showers Honours And Rewards On Super Falcons After Historic WAFCON Triumph

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has bestowed national honours, generous cash rewards, and housing gifts on Nigeria’s senior women’s football team, the Super Falcons, following their stunning victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

At a colourful presidential reception held at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on each of the 24 players and 11 members of the technical crew.

In recognition of their outstanding achievement, the President also approved the allocation of a three-bedroom apartment to every player and technical staff member under the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme, as well as a cash reward of $100,000 (in naira equivalent) to each player and $50,000 to each technical crew member.

“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable,” President Tinubu said to the jubilant squad. “You ignited the spirit of hope in our nation, and we will continue to encourage you and the generations coming after you.”

Reflecting on the emotions of the final match, the President said he had initially avoided watching due to the tension, but couldn’t resist once the team began turning the tide. “I didn’t want to have high blood pressure,” he joked. “But after the penalty, my spirit was lifted—and so was that of the nation.”

He added humorously that the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, who rarely watches football, was so engrossed in the match that she almost abandoned his dinner.

The President hailed the Falcons’ 10th WAFCON title as a powerful symbol of courage, unity, and national pride. He assured the team of his administration’s continued support for women’s football and sports development at large.

“Your story is the story of hope,” he said. “We celebrate you not only as champions of Africa but as champions of the Nigerian dream.”

In a further show of support, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a ?10 million cash donation to each player and technical crew member on behalf of the 36 state governors.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, praised the Super Falcons for their resilience, teamwork, and belief. “You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football,” she said. “Your journey is a shining example of courage and excellence.”

She expressed confidence in the team’s future on the world stage. “I told Mr. President this morning that you are going to win the World Cup,” she said. “He thought I was too ambitious, but your captain, Ajibade, just confirmed it is possible.”

Speaking on behalf of the team, captain Rasheedat Ajibade dedicated the victory to Nigerian girls with dreams of greatness. “This trophy is not just for us—it is for every young girl in every town and village who dares to dream,” she said.

Ajibade expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Nigerians for the overwhelming support. She also called on the government and stakeholders to build on the momentum to elevate Nigeria’s position in global women’s football.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the Super Falcons’ triumph as a testament to belief, discipline, and national unity. “Your Excellency, this is the fruit of your administration’s investment in sports and the empowerment of women,” Dikko said.

He commended the First Lady for her consistent support for women in sports and lauded the team for uniting Nigerians across regional and social divides.

“In those 90 minutes, Nigerians from the north, south, east, and west were united in prayer and celebration,” he noted. “That is the power of sports—and the power of our women in sports.”

The celebration capped off a historic moment in Nigeria’s sporting history, as the Super Falcons continue to blaze a trail not only across Africa, but also toward global greatness.