President Bola Tinubu has honoured Nigeria’s Super Falcons following their dramatic victory at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, bestowing national honours and generous rewards on the players and technical crew.
At a reception held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday, President Tinubu conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger on the 24 players and the 11-man technical team. In addition to the honours, each player was awarded the naira equivalent of $100,000 and gifted a three-bedroom apartment at the Renewed Hope Estate in Abuja. Members of the technical crew also received $50,000 each in naira.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls, who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable,” President Tinubu said. “Your victory represents more than a sporting accomplishment. It is a triumph of courage, determination, discipline, and consistency.”
He recalled the tense emotions during the final, where Nigeria came from two goals down to defeat Morocco 3-2 in Rabat. “I was very restless during the game. I did not even want to watch because of the pressure. But in the end, you lifted not only my spirit but that of the entire nation.”
In a further show of appreciation, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced a donation of ₦10 million to each member of the team and coaching crew on behalf of the 36 state governors.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, praised the players as shining examples of courage and excellence. “You played with passion, confidence, and an unshakeable belief in yourselves. You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade, speaking at the event, said the victory was not just for the team but for every Nigerian girl who dreams of greatness. “This title is a celebration of the unyielding Nigerian spirit. On behalf of my teammates and coaches, we are grateful for your unwavering belief in us.”
Ajibade urged the government and stakeholders to continue investing in women’s football to elevate Nigeria’s global presence in the sport.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the win as a powerful symbol of national unity. “This is more than a sporting success. It reflects what is possible when belief, courage and national pride come together.”
He credited the administration’s investment in sports and women’s empowerment for the Falcons’ success, while also commending the First Lady for her continuous support for women in sports.
Earlier in the day, the team arrived at the Presidential Villa to a warm welcome from Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila. The President and First Lady had also spoken with the team via video call following the final, expressing pride in the resilience shown during the match.
The victory marks Nigeria’s tenth WAFCON title, cementing the Super Falcons’ legacy as the most successful team in African women’s football. Over the past decade, they have lifted the continental trophy four times – in 2014, 2016, 2018 and now in 2025.
With their latest triumph, the Super Falcons have once again united a nation and inspired a generation, proving that Nigeria’s football legacy remains as strong as ever.
