In a colourful ceremony held at the Presidential Villa, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday conferred national honours of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on all 24 players and technical crew members of the Super Falcons in recognition of their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.During the reception at the State House, President Tinubu announced an elaborate reward package for the victorious team. Each player is to receive a three-bedroom apartment at the Renewed Hope Estate in Abuja, along with a cash reward of $100,000 (in naira equivalent). The members of the technical crew will also receive three-bedroom apartments and $50,000 each.
“This team has lifted our spirits and our flag higher than ever,” the President stated. “Your resilience, skill, and unity have brought honour to Nigeria, and I am proud to award these OON honours and life-changing gifts. You deserve every bit of this recognition.”
The President personally allocated the housing and cash awards, declaring them as a token of the nation’s gratitude for the Falcons’ sporting excellence and patriotism.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the team, calling them “queens of African football.”
“My beautiful and lovely Super Falcons, I celebrate you for this landmark victory,” she said. “You have written your names in gold, inspired millions across the continent, and reminded us all that Nigerian women are queens of African football.”
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade also spoke at the event, expressing deep appreciation to the President and First Lady on behalf of the team.
“This title is for you, Mr. President, it is for Nigerians – it is for every Nigerian girl who dares to dream. Today, we celebrate not just a win, but hope for the future,” she said.
President Tinubu used the occasion to encourage national support for female athletes and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rewarding excellence in all fields.
“You will be celebrated,” he assured, “and I congratulate the coaches, management, and officials. I pray for even greater success ahead.”
The First Lady further urged young Nigerian girls to take inspiration from the Super Falcons' achievement and to pursue their dreams with confidence and pride.
The celebratory event marks the culmination of weeks of national jubilation following the team’s dramatic 3–2 comeback victory in the WAFCON final in Rabat, Morocco.
— GMTNewsng
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