President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on all 24 players and 11 technical staff of Nigeria’s senior women’s football team, the Super Falcons, following their landmark victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
At a special reception held at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu awarded each team member the title of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in recognition of their extraordinary achievement — securing Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title.
In addition, the President directed that each player and coach be allocated a three-bedroom apartment under the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
A statement by Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga further disclosed that the President approved a cash award of $100,000 (naira equivalent) for each of the 24 players, and $50,000 for each technical crew member.
“You Represent Hope” — Tinubu
Speaking during the reception, an emotional President Tinubu lauded the team’s resilience and impact on national unity.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable,” he said.
“You have inspired me, too. You represent the hope of today, tomorrow, and the day after. And we will continue to encourage you, the next generation, and other generations after you.”
Reflecting on the tense final, Tinubu recounted how the game stirred both anxiety and pride across the country.
“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want high blood pressure,” he joked.
“When it was 2–0, I got very offended and restless. But after the penalty, my spirit was lifted — and so was the spirit of the nation.”
He also shared a humorous anecdote about how the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was so engrossed in the match that she nearly abandoned her kitchen duties.
“She doesn’t watch football, except when the girls are playing. And when the final whistle blew, there was joy all over the country,” the President said.
Governors Donate ₦10 Million to Each Team Member
In a further show of appreciation, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a collective donation of ₦10 million to each player and technical team member on behalf of the 36 state governors.
First Lady: “You Are Role Models”
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu hailed the Super Falcons as shining examples of courage, resilience, and excellence.
“You played with passion and an unshakeable belief in yourselves. Your zeal on the pitch was nothing short of inspirational. You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”
She also shared her conviction about the team’s future success:
“I told Mr. President this morning that you are going on to win the World Cup. He thought I was too ambitious — but your captain just confirmed it’s possible.”
Captain Ajibade: “This Victory Is for Every Nigerian Girl”
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, speaking on behalf of the players, thanked President Tinubu and the nation for their support.
“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.”
She urged continued investment in women’s football to elevate Nigeria’s global standing.
“This 10th title is for you, Mr. President, for Nigerians, for the Super Falcons, and for every young child who believes they can be on this stage someday.”
“A Symbol of National Unity” — Shehu Dikko
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, praised the Falcons’ victory as a powerful unifying moment for the nation.
“In those 90 minutes, Nigerians across the north, south, east, and west prayed, cheered, and celebrated together. That is the power of sports — and the power of our women in sports.”
He credited the Tinubu administration for renewed investments in sports and women’s empowerment, saying:
“This triumph is the fruit of your unwavering support. You have always believed that sports can unite and heal us, and today we have seen it happen.”
He also commended the First Lady for her “constant support” for Nigerian women in sports.
