By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday honoured Nigeria’s senior women’s football team, the Super Falcons, for winning their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.
President Tinubu at a reception in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, conferred the national title of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on each of the 24 players and 11 technical crew members. He also directed that each player receive the naira equivalent of $100,000 and each technical crew member $50,000.
President Tinubu said, “You have not only made us proud, you have lifted the spirit of a nation. In recognition of your heroic efforts and the pride you’ve brought to Nigeria, I hereby confer on you the Officer of the Order of the Niger and approve cash rewards and housing.”
The President also approved the allocation of three-bedroom apartments for all team members and coaches at the Renewed Hope Housing Estate in Abuja.
President Tinubu added, “You represent courage, discipline, and consistency. Your performance has reminded us all what it means to be Nigerian—resilient, determined, and never giving up.”
He recalled the tense final where Nigeria came from behind to beat hosts Morocco 3-2. He said, “I didn’t want to watch at first—I feared the pressure—but by the time the game ended, I couldn’t stop smiling. Even my wife abandoned my dinner just to watch you girls.”
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu praised the team. She said, “The zeal and confidence you brought to the pitch were nothing short of inspirational. You’ve made young girls across Nigeria believe that anything is possible.”
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament, said, “This trophy is more than a title—it’s a symbol of what Nigerian girls can achieve when given the chance. We are grateful for your support and urge continued investment in women’s football so we can reach even greater heights.”
Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, announced a ₦10 million donation to each team member and coach on behalf of the 36 state governors.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, said, “This victory is not just about football—it’s about national unity, pride, and the celebration of excellence.” He also commended the Tinubu administration for prioritising sports development and women’s empowerment.
The Super Falcons, now 10-time African champions, cemented their record as the most successful team in WAFCON history with their comeback win against Morocco in Saturday’s final.
The reception at the Presidential Villa was marked by music, celebration, and standing ovations as Nigerians celebrated the team’s historic triumph.
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