By Abdul Lauya
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours and approved substantial rewards for Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, following their historic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
At a grand presidential reception held in Abuja, President Tinubu announced the conferment of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on all 24 players and the 11-member technical crew. He further directed that each team member be allocated a three-bedroom apartment in the Renewed Hope Housing Estates located across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The President also approved the naira equivalent of $100,000 (₦117 million) for each player and $50,000 (₦58.5 million) for each technical team member, an unprecedented financial gesture in recognition of their outstanding achievement.
In a statement released by Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the team had become a beacon of inspiration for millions of Nigerians, especially young girls, and praised them for igniting national pride and unity through their performance.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable,” Tinubu said.
“Your victory represents more than a sporting accomplishment. It is a triumph of courage, determination, discipline, and consistency.”
The President also reflected on the tense moments during the final match in Morocco, sharing a personal account of how deeply invested he became despite initially avoiding the broadcast.
“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want to have high blood pressure… But after that penalty, my strength was lifted, and I believe that of the nation was lifted too,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sports development, Tinubu pledged increased investment in women’s football and youth talent. “In this era of Renewed Hope, we celebrate you not just as champions of Africa, but as champions of the Nigerian dream,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a donation of ₦10 million to each of the players and coaching staff on behalf of the 36 state governors.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, lauded the Super Falcons as “shining examples of courage and excellence,” describing their resilience and teamwork as inspirational.
“You never wavered and reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football,” she said.
Super Falcons Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, speaking on behalf of the team, dedicated the victory to every young girl across Nigeria who dreams of greatness.
“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 said.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the team’s win as a symbol of national cohesion and the power of sports to unify and uplift the country.
“The Super Falcons’ triumph is a fruit of your unwavering support for sports and women… In those 90 minutes, Nigerians from the north, south, east, and west prayed and celebrated together,” he said.
The reception concluded on a celebratory note, sealing what many described as a new chapter in the recognition and support for women’s football in Nigeria.
