In a grand reception at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the President conferred the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) honour on all 24 players and the 11-member technical crew. He also allocated three-bedroom apartments to each member of the team and coaching staff at the Renewed Hope Housing Estate in the Federal Capital Territory.
Beyond the national recognition, President Tinubu directed that the naira equivalent of $100,000 be paid to each player, while each coach and technical staff member would receive the equivalent of $50,000—a gesture applauded as one of the most generous reward packages in Nigerian sports history.
“You Represent Our National Spirit” – Tinubu
In his remarks, Tinubu described the Super Falcons as national treasures whose heroic performance in Morocco united Nigerians and inspired hope across the country.
“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable,” he said. “You have inspired me too. And it’s great for a nation to have assets that are the hope of today, tomorrow, and the day after.”
The President recalled the emotional rollercoaster of the final match against host nation Morocco, in which the Falcons overturned a two-goal deficit to win 3-2, lifting the nation’s spirits and confirming Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football.
“I didn’t want to watch the match initially,” Tinubu confessed. “But when we were down 2-0, I got restless. Then came the comeback, the penalty… It lifted my spirit and that of the entire country.”
He humorously added that the First Lady nearly abandoned dinner to watch the game, underscoring how deeply invested the nation was in the team’s performance.
Governors Add ₦10 Million Bonus for Each Member
In further recognition of their achievement, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), represented by its Chairman Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced an additional ₦10 million cash gift to each player and crew member on behalf of the 36 state governors.
First Lady: “You Are Role Models”
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, praised the Super Falcons as symbols of resilience and excellence, lauding their spirit and dedication.
“You played with passion, confidence, and an unshakeable belief in yourselves,” she said. “You reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”
She shared that she had earlier told the President the team would become world champions one day—a dream echoed by team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who described the victory as “a celebration of every young girl in Nigeria who dares to dream.”
Captain Ajibade: “We Are Proud Daughters of Nigeria”
Ajibade, who was also named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament, delivered an emotional speech on behalf of the team.
“Today, I stand before you not just as the captain of the Super Falcons, but as a proud daughter of Nigeria,” she said. “This victory is a testament to the unyielding spirit of Nigeria.”
Calling for more support for women’s football, Ajibade emphasized the team’s desire to make Nigeria a global force in the sport.
Sports Commission Chair: “This Victory United Nigeria”
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, hailed the victory as a national unifier and a product of renewed investment in women’s sports.
“This win goes beyond sports. It is a powerful symbol of our unity and cohesion,” Dikko said. “In those 90 minutes, Nigerians everywhere from north to south held their breath and then celebrated together.”
He praised the administration’s commitment to sports as a vehicle for national development, economic growth, and youth empowerment.
A Legacy of Dominance
The Super Falcons have now won 10 WAFCON titles, including a remarkable four in the last five editions (2014, 2016, 2018, and 2024). Their latest triumph against Morocco further solidifies their status as the most successful women’s football team in Africa.
Their dramatic comeback in the 2025 final was watched by millions and celebrated as one of the most iconic moments in Nigeria’s football history.
With national honours, financial incentives, and housing support, the Super Falcons are not just returning home as champions—they have etched their place in the country’s history as symbols of hope, unity, and unstoppable excellence.