President Bola Tinubu has conferred national honours and rewards on Nigeria’s Super Falcons and their technical crew following their historic victory at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
At a reception held on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu awarded each of the 24 players and 11 technical crew members the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). He also announced the allocation of three-bedroom apartments in Abuja’s Renewed Hope Estate to all team members, along with cash gifts equivalent to $100,000 for each player and $50,000 for each crew member.
“I hereby conferred on the players, the 11-man technical team, with national honours of the Officer of the Order of the Niger,” the President declared during the ceremony.
“Additionally, I have directed the allocation of three-bedroom apartments in the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
“Then there is the cash award of the naira equivalent of $100,000 US dollars each 24 players and the naira equivalent of $50,000 to the 11-man technical crew.”
He praised the team not just for their athletic achievement but also for inspiring the nation and particularly young girls.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable.
“You have inspired me, too. And it’s great for a nation to have assets that are the hope of today, tomorrow, and the day after. You represent that hope. You ignited that hope. And we will continue to encourage you, the next generation, and other generations after you.”
Tinubu promised his administration’s continued commitment to developing sports infrastructure and nurturing youth talent across Nigeria.
In further recognition, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a collective donation of ₦10 million to each player and technical crew member on behalf of the 36 state governors.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commended the Super Falcons as role models whose resilience and excellence had inspired millions of Nigerians.
“You played with passion, confidence, and an unshakeable belief in yourselves—that it is not over until it is over.
“The zeal you displayed on the pitch was nothing short of inspirational. You never wavered and reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”
She offered a prayer for their continued success and recalled an earlier morning discussion with the President about the team’s potential to become world champions.
“I told Mr. President this morning that you are going to win the World Cup, and he thought I was too ambitious. But Ajibade, the team captain, just seconded that, and that is possible,” she said.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who also emerged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), dedicated the victory to the team and all young Nigerian girls chasing their dreams.
“Today, I stand before you not just as the captain of the Super Falcons, but as a proud daughter of Nigeria, carrying the dreams, resilience, and spirit of our great nation,” she said.
“On behalf of my teammates, coaches, and technical staff, I express our heartfelt gratitude for this warm reception and the unwavering belief you have shown in us.”
Ajibade emphasized the symbolic weight of their achievement.
“This victory is not just a trophy. It is a testament to the unyielding spirit of Nigeria. It is a celebration of every young girl in our villages, towns, and cities who dares to dream… This 10th title is for you, Mr. President, for Nigerians, for Super Falcons, and for every young child who believes and dreams of being on this stage someday.”
She appealed for sustained investment in women’s football and sports development.
Earlier in the day, the Super Falcons arrived at the Aso Rock Villa, where they were received by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila. The team’s arrival followed their sensational comeback victory over Morocco in Saturday’s final, earning them a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
The Super Falcons now hold more WAFCON titles than any other African nation.
