In a grand show of appreciation for their exceptional performance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has showered members of Nigeria’s Super Falcons with national honours, brand-new homes, and generous cash rewards. The gesture came during a special reception held on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where the President hosted the victorious team and their technical crew.
Each player and crew member was conferred with one of Nigeria’s highest national honours, the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). This prestigious title symbolizes not only the nation’s gratitude but also the pride that the Super Falcons have brought to Nigeria through their spirited display on the continental stage.
President Tinubu, while addressing the team, praised their commitment, discipline, and courage, noting that their efforts went beyond just playing football, they lifted the spirit of the nation and inspired a new generation of young Nigerian girls. He emphasized that the team’s unity, strength, and competitive spirit exemplify the greatness that Nigeria can achieve through perseverance and teamwork.
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In a lighthearted moment that drew laughter, President Tinubu revealed that he deliberately refrained from watching the WAFCON final match live, joking that the suspense and tension could have triggered high blood pressure. His remarks, though humorous, reflected just how invested the nation was in the outcome of the tournament and how deeply connected Nigerians felt to the Super Falcons’ journey.
As part of the rewards package, the President announced the allocation of fully furnished homes to each team member and undisclosed cash gifts to appreciate their dedication and outstanding performance. The financial and material rewards, combined with the national honours, are seen as part of a broader move to recognize and promote the importance of women in sports, as well as to motivate the Super Falcons and other athletes to aim higher in future competitions.
The celebration has since gone viral across social media, with fans and citizens hailing the federal government’s gesture as timely and well-deserved. The recognition not only boosts morale among female athletes in the country but also signals the Tinubu administration’s renewed commitment to developing sports in Nigeria, especially women’s football.