In a grand reception at the presidential residence, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu hailed the Super Falcons for their remarkable achievement in clinching the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) title, marking their 10th victory in the tournament's history. Each of the 24 players will be awarded $100,000 (approximately £75,000) along with the promise of a three-bedroom apartment, a pledge aimed at recognizing the team's dedication and historic success.
Amidst cheers and festivities, President Tinubu praised the team's recent triumph over Morocco, citing it as a "triumph of courage, determination and consistency." He humorously disclosed his anxiety during the match, stating, "At some point, I didn't want to watch the match because of the stress." Upon their arrival at Abuja airport, the players were welcomed with traditional dancers, drummers, and numerous supporters, reflecting national pride in their victory.
Further honoring the team, the President conferred the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger award to each player and staff member, emphasizing the gratitude of the nation for their contributions. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade described their victory as inspiration for “every young girl” aspiring to dream big, while advocating for further support from the football federation and government to elevate the Super Falcons to global prominence.
Despite the celebration, the recent promise of monetary rewards comes amidst a backdrop of past issues regarding delayed payments and bonuses faced by both men's and women's teams. Months of protests over payment disparities have marred the teams' histories, with calls from fans for equal pay with the male counterpart, the Super Eagles.
In a move to rectify past delays, President Tinubu had promised immediate payments of match allowances and bonuses to ensure consistent financial recognition of players’ efforts moving forward. As the Super Falcons bask in their well-deserved accolades, fans and players alike hope for a new era of acknowledgment and investment in women’s football in Nigeria.
Amidst cheers and festivities, President Tinubu praised the team's recent triumph over Morocco, citing it as a "triumph of courage, determination and consistency." He humorously disclosed his anxiety during the match, stating, "At some point, I didn't want to watch the match because of the stress." Upon their arrival at Abuja airport, the players were welcomed with traditional dancers, drummers, and numerous supporters, reflecting national pride in their victory.
Further honoring the team, the President conferred the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger award to each player and staff member, emphasizing the gratitude of the nation for their contributions. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade described their victory as inspiration for “every young girl” aspiring to dream big, while advocating for further support from the football federation and government to elevate the Super Falcons to global prominence.
Despite the celebration, the recent promise of monetary rewards comes amidst a backdrop of past issues regarding delayed payments and bonuses faced by both men's and women's teams. Months of protests over payment disparities have marred the teams' histories, with calls from fans for equal pay with the male counterpart, the Super Eagles.
In a move to rectify past delays, President Tinubu had promised immediate payments of match allowances and bonuses to ensure consistent financial recognition of players’ efforts moving forward. As the Super Falcons bask in their well-deserved accolades, fans and players alike hope for a new era of acknowledgment and investment in women’s football in Nigeria.
