Nigeria’s triumphant Super Falcons received a hero’s welcome as President Bola Tinubu hosted the team at the State House to celebrate their sensational win at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
In a landmark gesture, President Tinubu conferred national honours on all 24 players and 11 members of the coaching and technical staff, awarding them the title of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
But that wasn’t all.
Each player and staff member also received a three-bedroom apartment under the government’s Renewed Hope Housing Scheme and a generous cash reward—$100,000 (in naira) for each player, and $50,000 for each member of the technical crew.
In a rousing address, the President praised the team’s unyielding spirit and their role in uplifting the nation:“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable. You have inspired me too,” he said, to cheers from the elated squad.
Recalling the emotional rollercoaster of the final match, Tinubu admitted he initially avoided watching out of nerves.“When it was 2-0, I was offended and restless. But after that penalty, my strength—and I believe the strength of the nation—was lifted.”
Even the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, got swept up in the excitement, nearly abandoning dinner in the kitchen to watch the game.
The President emphasized that the team’s victory was far more than a sporting achievement:
“This is a triumph of courage, determination, discipline, and consistency… You represent the Nigerian dream.”
He also pledged deeper government investment in sports and youth development, particularly in women’s football.
In an additional show of national gratitude, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, announced a ₦10 million reward for each player and crew member, courtesy of Nigeria’s 36 state governors.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu celebrated the Super Falcons as icons of perseverance and unity:
“You played with passion and belief. Your journey is a testament to resilience and teamwork. You are shining examples to girls across the continent.”
She added, with optimism, “I told Mr. President this morning that you are going to win the World Cup next. He thought I was ambitious—but Ajibade seconded it!”
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade delivered an emotional speech on behalf of her teammates:
“This 10th title is for Mr. President, for Nigerians, and for every young girl who dreams of greatness. We are deeply grateful for your belief in us.”
She also urged continued support for women’s football, stressing the potential for global dominance with sustained investment.
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, praised the Falcons for uniting a divided nation, even if just for 90 minutes:
“In those moments, Nigerians from every region held their breath and celebrated together. That is the power of sport. That is the power of our women.”
Dikko credited President Tinubu’s administration for prioritizing women’s sports and empowering athletes through policy and support.
With 10 WAFCON titles under their belt and the full support of the nation behind them, the Super Falcons are not just champions of Africa—they are the face of a new era in Nigerian sports.
And perhaps, as the First Lady said, future World Cup champions.
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