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As Tinubu Gifts Players $100k, Houses
BY IFEANYI UWAGWU/ EBIPADE NEKETIEN
NIGERIA’S Super Falcons received a hero’s welcome in Abuja , yesterday, following their triumphant campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where they secured a record 10th title. At a presidential reception held in their honour, President Bola Tinubu showered the team with generous rewards in recognition of their historic achievement.
Each of the 24 players was awarded $100,000 and a furnished three-bedroom apartment at the Renewed Hope Housing estate in Abuja. The technical team members also received $50,000 each. In a further show of appreciation, the president conferred the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on all players and officials. The Super Falcons had completed their “Mission X” in style, coming from two goals down to defeat hosts Morocco 3–2 in a dramatic final in Rabat. After trailing early in the match, goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and a late winner by Jennifer Echegini sealed the thrilling comeback. The win extended Nigeria’s perfect record in WAFCON finals and reaffirmed their dominance in African women’s football.
The celebrations in Abuja were further boosted by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, whose chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, pledged an additional ₦10 million to each player and the technical crew. The gesture was warmly received as a sign of solidarity and recognition of the team’s efforts on the continent’s biggest stage.
President Tinubu hailed the Falcons as national icons who had not only demonstrated resilience and courage but also brought pride and joy to millions of Nigerians. He pledged continued government support for women’s football and sports development in general, describing the players as shining examples of the nation’s indomitable spirit.
President Bola Tinubu (2nd right), receiving the Trophy from the Captain of the victorious Super Falcons, Rasheedat Ajibade when the President hosted the Nigeria team to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) championship in Morocco, yesterday, at Abuja, while his wife, Remi and others applaud the gallant ladies.
