President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday conferred national honours on all 24 players and 11 technical crew members of Nigeria’s senior women’s national 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 Presidential Villa, Tinubu awarded each member of the team the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) title.
In addition, he approved:
A three-bedroom apartment for each player and coach under the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme, and
A cash award of $100,000 (naira equivalent) for each player, while each technical team member will receive $50,000.
“You Represent Hope” — Tinubu
President Tinubu, visibly emotional, praised the team for uniting the country through their courageous performance.
“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.
“Your victory is more than a sporting accomplishment. It is a triumph of courage, determination, and discipline. You represent hope — for today, tomorrow, and generations to come.”
He shared a lighthearted moment, recalling how the tension during the final almost disrupted his evening.
“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want high blood pressure. But people turned on the TV. When it was 2-0, I got restless.
Your mother (the First Lady) nearly abandoned my dinner! But after that penalty, joy filled the house — and the entire nation.”
Governors Pledge ₦10 Million Each
In further recognition, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), announced that all 36 state governors will jointly donate ₦10 million to each player and coach.
First Lady: “You Are Role Models”
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady, celebrated the Super Falcons as “shining examples of courage, resilience and passion.”
“You played with an unshakable belief in yourselves. Your zeal on the pitch reminded the world why Nigeria is a powerhouse in women’s football.”
She also expressed optimism about the team’s future, saying:
“I told Mr. President this morning that you’re going on to win the World Cup. He thought I was too ambitious, but your captain just confirmed it’s possible.”
Ajibade: “This Is for Every Nigerian Girl”
Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, thanked the President and Nigerians on behalf of the team:
“Today I stand before you not just as a captain, but as a proud daughter of Nigeria.
This victory is a celebration of every young girl in our villages, towns, and cities who dares to dream.”
She urged the government and stakeholders to deepen their support for women’s football in Nigeria.
Dikko: “A Triumph of Unity”
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, described the victory as a moment of national unity.
“In those 90 minutes, Nigerians across every region prayed, cheered, and celebrated together. That is the power of sports — and of our women in sports.”
He credited President Tinubu and the First Lady for their consistent support of women’s empowerment through sports.
