Tinubu Confers National Honours, Gifts $100,000 to Super Falcons
President Bola Tinubu on Monday conferred national honours on members of the Super Falcons and announced a cash award of $100,000 (approximately N150 million) for their remarkable performance at the just-concluded 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The event, which took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was attended by top government officials, sports administrators, and family members of the award recipients.
The President conferred the honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) on each player and commended the team for making Nigeria proud on the continental stage.
“Your resilience, your determination, and your exceptional performance on the field have brought pride and glory to our great nation,” Tinubu said.
In addition to the national honours, the President also announced a $100,000 cash reward to be shared among the players and coaching crew, promising that his administration would continue to invest in sports development and the empowerment of women in athletics.
The Super Falcons defeated South Africa 1-0 in a tightly contested final in Rabat, Morocco, clinching a record-extending 12th WAFCON title and solidifying their status as the most successful team in African women’s football history.
The President also pledged better support structures for the team, including improved facilities, medical support, and welfare packages.
Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, praised the Super Falcons for their dedication and thanked the President for recognizing their efforts.
“The recognition given to these outstanding women is a bold statement that Nigeria supports excellence and will reward commitment,” the minister said.
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Team captain, Onome Ebi, who spoke on behalf of her teammates, expressed gratitude to the President for the honours and reward, assuring Nigerians that the team would continue to work hard and represent the country with pride on the international stage.
She said, “This honour means a lot to us. It is a motivation to do more, and we will not disappoint Nigeria.”
The Super Falcons’ victory and recognition have drawn praise from Nigerians at home and abroad, many describing the President’s gesture as timely and encouraging for women’s sports in the country.