The Super Falcons of Nigeria received a rousing welcome and a shower of national honours on Monday following their stunning 3-2 comeback victory over Morocco in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final.
In a ceremony held at the State House in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rewarded the African champions with prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) titles, ₦100 million naira equivalent for each of the 24 players, and ₦50 million naira equivalent for the 11 officials. Each team member was also gifted a three-bedroom apartment in the Renewed Hope Initiative Housing Estate.
The historic event was attended by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President (represented by Senator Abdul Ningi), top government dignitaries, and an elated crowd that welcomed the champions.
“This team has ignited the hope of a nation,” President Tinubu said. “Your resilience, determination, and unbreakable spirit lifted Nigeria when it mattered most.”
Reflecting on the dramatic match, the President admitted he initially avoided watching due to tension. “When Morocco led 2-0, I got offended and restless. But after the penalty, my strength was lifted and I believe that of the nation too.”
He went on to commend the team’s consistency and courage. “This is more than a victory in sport. It’s a statement about Nigeria’s spirit. You represent the hope of today, tomorrow, and beyond.”
The Super Falcons’ 10th WAFCON title a perfect record in tournament finals came after a dramatic comeback. Down 2–0 at halftime, Okoronkwo converted a penalty in the 63rd minute. She then assisted Ijamilusi to level the score. The winning moment came in the 88th minute, with Echegini sealing the victory from a set piece.
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade, expressing pride and gratitude, said, “This is for every Nigerian girl who dares to dream. We carry the spirit of a great nation.” She also called for continued government and stakeholder support to elevate women’s football in Nigeria.
The First Lady praised the team as “shining examples of resilience and excellence,” saying, “I told Mr. President this morning you will win the World Cup, and Ajibade just seconded that.”
Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced that each player and official would receive N10 million from Nigeria’s 36 state governors.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the team’s triumph as a “symbol of national unity” and praised the Tinubu administration’s investments in women’s empowerment and sports development.
“You’ve proven that sports can unite, heal, and uplift this country,” he said.
With this momentous achievement, the Super Falcons have not only reaffirmed their dominance in African women’s football but have also become icons of hope and national pride.
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