Yesterday, Nigeria’s Super Falcons landed in Abuja to a hero’s welcome following their dramatic 3‑2 comeback victory over host nation Morocco—securing their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title. Pride beamed from every corner of the stadium, and as the chartered flight touched down at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, fans and dignitaries alike celebrated the nation’s queens of football.
Upon arrival, the team embarked on a trophy parade aboard an open-top bus through Abuja’s key districts—Airport Road, Berger Junction, Maitama, and Wuse Market—drawing cheers and applause as the WAFCON trophy glinted under the sun.
Later in the afternoon, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed the champions at the Presidential Villa in Aso Rock. Almost exactly at 4:35 p.m., the team arrived in style and were greeted by President Tinubu, First Lady Senator Oluremi “Remi” Tinubu, and other senior officials including the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima.
During a live video call from Rabat shortly after the victory, President Tinubu praised captain Rasheedat Ajibade—named Player of the Tournament—and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who won Best Goalkeeper honours. He reaffirmed his commitment to rewarding and supporting the team upon their return.
At the State House reception, Tinubu delivered grand recognition. Every player received:
- the national honour Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON),
- the naira equivalent of US $100,000, and
- a three‑bedroom apartment in the government’s Renewed Hope Housing estate.
Similarly, each of the 11-member technical and administrative crew received US $50,000, OON honours, and their own apartment.
In his remarks, the President reflected on the comeback thrill, calling the victory “a symbol of resilience, courage, and what is possible when we dare to believe and work together.” He emphasized that the Falcons “ignited hope in millions of Nigerians” and vowed continued support for sports and talent development nationwide.
First Lady Remi Tinubu, in her address, hailed the team as role models for Nigerian women and girls. Describing their win as “remarkable and commendable,” she declared: “You have written your names in gold and inspired millions across the continent”. She went further, challenging the Falcons to set their sights even higher: “You need to win the World Cup,” she declared, as the team laughed and cheered in agreement—the captain joined her in nodding to bigger dreams ahead.
The tangible recognition went hand in hand with the intangible: President Tinubu’s video call during the final match underscored the administration’s enthusiasm; First Lady Tinubu’s warm words highlighted women’s empowerment through sport. Their unified support extended both celebration and inspiration, demonstrating that Nigeria’s victory is not just sport—it’s national pride in action.
The Super Falcons themselves expressed deep gratitude. Captain Ajibade dedicated the victory “to every Nigerian girl who dares to dream,” while acknowledging that the recognition and support renew their drive for future achievements. The broader football community echoed the sentiment: Nigeria’s Governors’ Forum added N10 million naira per player and official in additional recognition, and fellow Super Eagles players even contributed generosity of their own.
This homecoming was more than ceremonial—it was symbolic. The Super Falcons’ return, celebrated by both President Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu, affirmed that excellence in women’s sport is worthy of national recognition. Their rewards—honours, cash, homes—built a foundation not just for comfort, but for legacy.
For Voice of Lagos readers, the Falcons’ return marks a significant milestone: Nigeria’s women’s football is being valued at the highest levels, and the administration’s response sends a clear message—talent, tenacity, and triumph do not go unnoticed in this nation. As we celebrate WAFCON champions today, we also look ahead—charged by their achievements, uplifted by their promise, and united by the strength they embody.
