President Bola Tinubu has conferred national honours on the victorious Super Falcons team and their technical crew following their historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title win in Morocco.
At a special reception held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, President Tinubu announced the award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) to all 24 players and the 11-man technical crew. In addition, he approved:
• Three-bedroom apartments in Abuja for each player and technical crew member under the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
• Cash rewards of the naira equivalent of $100,000 for each player and $50,000 for each coach.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls, who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable,” Tinubu said. “You represent hope, and we will continue to encourage you and generations after you.”
The President emotionally recalled watching the dramatic final match, during which Nigeria came from 2-0 down to beat hosts Morocco 3-2. He admitted he was initially hesitant to watch due to tension but was filled with joy after the comeback victory.
“The First Lady was so involved she nearly forgot my dinner,” he joked.
President Tinubu promised greater investment in women’s football and youth talent development nationwide. He described the team as “champions of the Nigerian dream.”
In a further show of appreciation, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a ₦10 million donation to each player and coach on behalf of the 36 state governors.
First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, hailed the Super Falcons as role models and praised their courage, confidence, and resilience.
“You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football,” she said. She also shared her optimism with the President that the team could win the World Cup someday.
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade described the WAFCON victory as a symbol of hope for Nigerian girls everywhere.
“This trophy is not just for us—it is for every young girl who dares to dream,” she said, calling for more support for women’s football in Nigeria.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, also commended the team and praised the Tinubu administration’s commitment to sports development and women’s empowerment.
“This win goes beyond football. It united Nigerians from all regions and walks of life. That is the power of sports—and of our women,” he said.
Earlier, the Super Falcons were received at Aso Rock following their record-breaking 10th WAFCON title by Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila before meeting with the President and First Lady.
President Tinubu had also congratulated Rasheedat Ajibade in a video call after the final, praising the team’s resilience and historic comeback.
