Nigeria's national women's football team, the Super Falcons, received a grand welcome on their return home after a thrilling win at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) held in Morocco. At Aso Rock, the presidential residence, President Bola Tinubu celebrated their remarkable achievement, promising each of the 24 players a cash reward of $100,000 (approximately £75,000) and a three-bedroom apartment.
The team, known for their resilience, captured their 10th Wafcon title with a nail-biting 3-2 victory against Morocco, showcasing their determination and skill. President Tinubu commended the players, noting the match's stress, even admitting to hesitance in viewing it live due to the tension. He stated, "Today, you returned home as champions of Africa," expressing pride in the team's accomplishments.
Upon arrival at Abuja's main airport, the Super Falcons were greeted by an enthusiastic crowd, complete with traditional dancers and drummers, before being escorted in a convoy to the presidential residence. Tinubu also awarded the players and coaching staff national honors, conferring upon them the Officer of the Order of the Niger, acknowledging their remarkable contributions to Nigerian sports.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade articulated the victory's significance, declaring it a triumph for every aspiring girl across Nigeria. She emphasized the importance of continued support from both the football federation and the government to elevate the Super Falcons to global prominence. Despite the jubilant moment, the team's history is marred by issues surrounding delayed payments and bonuses which have led to protests during major tournaments, including their recent World Cup run.
Noting a long-standing issue with the government’s unfulfilled promises, both the Super Falcons and the men’s team, the Super Eagles, have faced delays in receiving their due compensations. The Nigerian government has recently begun honoring commitments that date back decades, such as housing promises for the Super Eagles following their 1994 Cup of Nations victory.
As the president assured fans of timely payments moving forward, the call for equal pay continues to resonate among supporters of women's football in Nigeria. With their latest triumph, the Super Falcons have further strengthened their legacy, having won ten out of the thirteen Wafcon tournaments since inception in 1998.
