TINUBU HONOURS WAFCON-WINNING SUPER FALCONS WITH NATIONAL AWARDS, HOUSING, AND CASH GIFT
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• Each player receives OON, ₦100m reward; NGF gifts ₦10m each
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu honoured Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, for their historic triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The President conferred national honours on all 24 players and the 11-member technical team, awarding each the prestigious title of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
In addition to the honours, President Tinubu announced a generous cash reward of the naira equivalent of $100,000 for each player and $50,000 for each technical team member. He also directed that each team member be allocated a three-bedroom apartment under the government’s Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable,” President Tinubu said, addressing the jubilant players. “You represent hope. You ignited that hope, and we will continue to encourage you and the next generations.”
Recounting the emotional final match, Tinubu admitted he was nervous during the game but ended up celebrating with the rest of the nation.
“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want to have high blood pressure,” he joked. “But after that penalty, my strength was lifted — and I believe the strength of the nation was lifted too.”
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting women’s football and developing youth sports across the country.
“You are not just champions of Africa — you are champions of the Nigerian dream,” he added.
In a further show of appreciation, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a donation of ₦10 million to each team member on behalf of all 36 state governors.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu praised the Super Falcons for their tenacity and role in inspiring the nation. “The zeal you displayed on the pitch was nothing short of inspirational,” she said. “You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”
She expressed confidence in the team’s future, declaring, “I told Mr. President this morning that you are going on to win the World Cup.”
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, speaking on behalf of her teammates, expressed gratitude for the national recognition and reiterated the team’s commitment to making Nigeria proud on the global stage.
“This victory is not just a trophy — it is a celebration of every young girl in our villages, towns, and cities who dares to dream,” Ajibade said. “This 10th title is for Nigeria.”
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, praised the team’s success as a unifying moment for the country and a sign of the positive impact of the Tinubu administration’s investment in sports and women’s empowerment.
“The Super Falcons’ triumph is a symbol of national unity, inspiration, and the triumph of belief,” he said.
The Super Falcons’ 2024 WAFCON win marks their record-extending 10th continental title, solidifying their position as the dominant force in African women’s football.
