President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honored Nigeria’s Super Falcons with the national title of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) following their historic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Rabat, Morocco.


In addition to the national honours, each player will receive a three-bedroom apartment and a cash prize of $100,000 (approximately ₦153 million). Members of the 11-man technical crew will also receive $50,000 (₦75.6 million) each in recognition of their efforts.


National Gratitude for a Historic Win

While hosting the team at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu expressed immense pride in their performance, noting that this marks Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title.


“Today, you return home as champions of Africa. You made us very, very proud. Your victory is a triumph of courage, determination, discipline, and consistency,” he said.


Reflecting on the intensity of the final, the President shared a personal anecdote:


“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match… When it was 2-0, I got restless. But after that penalty and it became 2-1, my spirit was lifted—just like that of the nation.”


Inspired by the Falcons

President Tinubu praised the team’s impact beyond the football field, saying their win has inspired millions—especially young girls.


“You inspired me too. You represented hope and reignited the Nigerian spirit.”


On behalf of all Nigerians, he officially conferred the national honour of OON on the players and technical team.


Governors’ Forum Matches Reward

In a further show of appreciation, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a ₦10 million cash reward for each player and member of the technical crew on behalf of all 36 state governors.


First Lady: “You Are Role Models”

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu lauded the Super Falcons as role models and symbols of excellence, describing their journey as a lesson in resilience and teamwork.


“The zeal you displayed was nothing short of inspirational. You never wavered. You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”


She also expressed faith in the team's future, telling the President earlier that the Falcons would go on to win the Women’s World Cup—a sentiment echoed by team captain, Rasheedat Ajibade.


Ajibade: “This Victory Belongs to Every Nigerian Girl”

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade delivered an emotional speech, dedicating the win to every Nigerian girl with a dream.


“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.”


She called for continued investment in women’s football to elevate Nigeria’s global presence.


Dikko: “This is National Unity in Action”

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, applauded the team’s success as a testament to the unifying power of sports.


“This win goes beyond football—it’s a symbol of national unity and pride. For 90 minutes, Nigerians everywhere held their breath, prayed, and celebrated together.”


He credited the Tinubu administration for its support toward sports development and women’s empowerment.


Nigerians React on Social Media

Nigerians took to X (formerly Twitter) to express joy and admiration for the President’s gesture.


@OjubanireKehin2: “₦150 million for each of the players! I'm happy for them, especially the home-based. This is huge. Thank you, Mr. President!”


@FranklynGaga: “Highly commendable. Congratulations to our women. This is massive. Hope he fulfils it.”


@cryptostashed20: “Very good. These girls really need that. In advanced countries, there are systems to support athletes, even after retirement.”


@karen_bae__: “No president has ever done such. Some promises made in the past weren’t even fulfilled.”

@iamdavepolo: “If this is real, then it’s worth commending. Achievements like this deserve national honours. Kudos, Baba.”