President Bola Tinubu has bestowed national honours on all 24 players and the 11-member technical crew of Nigeria’s senior women’s football team, the Super Falcons, in recognition of their historic triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
During a presidential reception in their honour, President Tinubu conferred the title of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on each team member and announced the allocation of a three-bedroom apartment to every player and coach under the government’s Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
The President further approved a monetary reward of $100,000 (naira equivalent) for each of the 24 players and $50,000 for every technical team member.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable. You have inspired me too. A nation must cherish assets that embody the hope of today, tomorrow, and the future.
“You represent that hope, and we will continue to support you and the generations after you,” President Tinubu told the jubilant squad.
He recounted the tense moments of the final match, describing how the team’s performance uplifted national morale.
“Your victory represents more than sporting success; it is a triumph of courage, determination, discipline, and consistency. Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match for fear of my blood pressure rising.
“When we were 2-0 down, I was restless, but after that penalty, my spirits were lifted, just like the nation’s. Even the First Lady was so absorbed in the game she nearly abandoned my dinner,” he said to laughter.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development, pledging further investment in women’s football and grassroots talent.
“Your story is a story of hope. In this era of Renewed Hope, we celebrate you as champions of Africa and champions of the Nigerian dream.”
In a further gesture of appreciation, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced a donation of ₦10 million to each player and technical team member on behalf of the 36 state governors.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu hailed the Super Falcons as role models, praising their resilience and unwavering commitment.
“You played with passion, confidence, and the conviction that it isn’t over until it is over. You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football,” she said.
She also shared her optimism for the team’s future: “I told Mr President this morning that you are on your way to winning the World Cup. He thought I was too ambitious, but your captain, Ajibade, has confirmed it is possible.”
Super Falcons Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, expressing gratitude for the honours, said: “This victory is for every Nigerian girl who dreams of achieving greatness. It is a celebration of our unyielding spirit and a promise to the next generation that their dreams are valid.”
She called for sustained investment from the government and stakeholders to cement Nigeria’s standing in global women’s football.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the team’s victory as a unifying force for the nation.
“For 90 minutes, Nigerians everywhere held their breath, prayed, and celebrated together. This triumph symbolises the power of sports and the extraordinary achievements of our women athletes,” he remarked, crediting the Tinubu administration for its support of sports development and women’s empowerment.
