Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on July 28, 2025, rolled out a presidential red carpet for the triumphant Super Falcons after their astonishing 3–2 comeback win against Morocco to claim their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.
It was more than a celebration—it was a national salute.
Hosted at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the ceremony saw Nigeria’s finest female footballers and their coaching crew showered with monetary rewards, national honours, and new homes—a gesture many described as long overdue and deeply symbolic.
Honours Fit for Champions
National Awards: Every player and coach received the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) award, one of Nigeria’s highest national honours.
Cash Gifts: Each of the 24 players took home the equivalent of ₦150 million ($100,000), while each of the 11 coaching staff members was awarded ₦75 million ($50,000).
Homes for All: Tinubu also promised every team member a three-bedroom apartment through the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
To sweeten the deal, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum topped it up with an additional ₦10 million per person—an act of solidarity applauded nationwide.
Tinubu’s Tribute: “You Lifted the Nation”
In his emotionally-charged speech, President Tinubu commended the Falcons for representing Nigeria with heart, grit, and grace.
“You have shown the world that Nigerian women do not give up,” he said. “You unified this country with your resilience. Millions of young girls now believe more in themselves—because of you.”
Tinubu also admitted he nearly skipped the match due to nerves but was “sucked in by the drama” and ended up celebrating like every other Nigerian as the team pulled off an unforgettable comeback.
Public Reactions: Applause, Comparisons & Pride
While some debated the size of the rewards online, presidential aide Bayo Onanuga defended the generosity, comparing it to entertainment prizes like Big Brother Naija’s ₦150 million reward. “This is real merit. This is national pride,” he wrote.
Sports enthusiasts, gender advocates, and social media users praised the gesture as a landmark moment for women’s football in Africa. One viral comment read: “N150M for champions who bled for the flag? Deserved!”
Beyond the Pitch: A Statement of Support
This recognition wasn’t just about football—it was about rewriting narratives. With a mix of national pride, female empowerment, and policy commitment, the celebration affirmed that women in sports deserve more than applause—they deserve equity.
As the confetti settles and the accolades pile up, the Super Falcons remain not just champions of Africa—but a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.
