Players and technical crew receive OON titles, three-bedroom apartments, and millions in cash after historic 10th continental title
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday honoured Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, with national awards, cash rewards, and housing allocations in recognition of their historic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
At a presidential reception held in Abuja, the President conferred the title of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on all 24 players and 11 members of the technical crew. Each awardee will also receive a three-bedroom apartment under the government’s Renewed Hope Housing Scheme, a cash reward equivalent to $100,000 for players, and $50,000 for each member of the technical team.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable,” Tinubu said. “You ignited hope and showed resilience and determination. This victory goes beyond football. It is a story of courage, discipline, and the Nigerian dream.”
Recalling the tense moments of the final match, the President said the Falcons’ comeback lifted the nation’s spirit and even disrupted his evening. “Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match at first. But when it was 2-0, I got restless. After that penalty, my strength was lifted and I believe the strength of the nation was lifted too,” he said.
In addition to the federal rewards, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, announced that all 36 state governors would jointly award ₦10 million each to the players and technical team members.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, praised the Super Falcons for their resilience and passion. “You played with confidence and never wavered. You have reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football,” she said.
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade expressed gratitude on behalf of the squad. “This victory is a testament to the unyielding spirit of Nigeria. It is for every young girl in our villages, towns and cities who dares to dream,” she said.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, credited the team’s success to the government’s continued investment in sports and women’s empowerment. “This win shows the power of sports to unite Nigerians everywhere,” Dikko said.
The 10th WAFCON title victory has reinforced Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football and highlighted the growing impact of women athletes in uniting the country.
