President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on members of Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, in recognition of their remarkable victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The Falcons, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, secured Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title with a dramatic comeback win over hosts Morocco on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
To reward their performance, President Tinubu also approved a cash reward of $100,000 (in naira equivalent) to each of the 24 players; $50,000 to each member of the 11-person technical crew; a three-bedroom apartment for every player and crew member in the government’s Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
These announcements were made during a presidential reception held in their honour at the State House.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable. You have inspired me, too. You represent the hope of today, tomorrow, and beyond,” President Tinubu said, addressing the jubilant team.
He recounted the tension during the final match, joking that he initially avoided watching it to prevent his blood pressure from rising.
“When it was 2-0, I got very offended and restless. But your resilience turned things around. My strength was lifted, and I believe that of the nation was lifted too.”
He added humorously that the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, nearly abandoned his dinner in the kitchen because of the match, saying she only watches football when the Super Falcons are playing.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to sports development, particularly women’s football, assuring that his government would continue to invest in nurturing youth talent nationwide.
“Your story is a story of hope. In this era of Renewed Hope, we celebrate you not just as champions of Africa but as champions of the Nigerian dream,” he said.
₦10 Million Gift from Governors’ Forum
As part of the celebration, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a ₦10 million cash donation for each player and crew member on behalf of the 36 state governors.
First Lady Praises Falcons as Role Models
The First Lady described the Super Falcons as “role models and shining examples of courage and excellence,” praising their passion and self-belief throughout the tournament.
“You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football,” she said. She also predicted a bright future:
“I told Mr. President this morning that you are going to win the World Cup, and he thought I was too ambitious. But Ajibade just seconded that, and that is possible.”
Captain Ajibade Dedicates Victory to Nigerian Girls
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade described the victory as more than a trophy—it was a symbol of resilience and national pride.
“This 10th title is for you, Mr. President, for Nigerians, for the Super Falcons, and for every young child who believes and dreams of being on this stage someday,” she said.
Ajibade also called for sustained support from the government and stakeholders to elevate Nigeria’s global standing in women’s football.
Sports Commission Chairman Hails Unity and Investment
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, described the victory as a unifying moment for the nation, lauding President Tinubu’s support for sports and women’s empowerment.
“In those 90 minutes, Nigerians everywhere—from the north, south, east, and west—held their breath, prayed together, and celebrated together. That is the power of sports, and the power of our women in sports,” he said.
Dikko also acknowledged the First Lady’s “constant support for our women in sports,” and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth and sports development.
Credit: Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy)
