Nigeria Celebrates Women’s Football Triumph with Promised Rewards

Nigerian women footballers, the Super Falcons, received a warm welcome and significant rewards from the government following their recent success at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, where they claimed their 10th title.

Nigerian women's national football team, the Super Falcons, was greeted with joy and national accolades after their remarkable victory at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) in Morocco. President Bola Tinubu hosted the team in his Aso Rock residence, where he announced a reward of $100,000 (approximately £75,000) and three-bedroom apartments for each of the 24 players. These promises, celebrated by the squad, mirror the quality of their recent triumph—an exhilarating 3-2 comeback win against hosts Morocco.

During the ceremony, President Tinubu praised the team for their "courage, determination, and consistency," asserting, "Today, you returned home as champions of Africa." As the players arrived at Abuja's main airport, they were met with enthusiastic cheers from traditional dancers, drummers, and jubilant officials. The President also conferred the "Officer of the Order of the Niger" honors to the players and coaching staff, marking their achievement on behalf of the grateful nation.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade expressed that their victory serves as an inspiration for young girls across Nigeria, urging for ongoing support from the football federation and government to elevate the Super Falcons to global prominence. The team's achievement is indeed significant, as they have won 10 out of 13 editions of the Wafcon since its inception in 1998.

However, past experiences of unfulfilled promises regarding bonuses and salaries left a cloud of skepticism over the recent rewards. Both national football teams in Nigeria have experienced protracted difficulties with delayed payments, prompting protests from the players. Plateaued government support became starkly apparent, with only recently addressing the longstanding pledge of homes for the victorious Super Eagles of 1994.

In a proactive move ahead of their final match, President Tinubu reportedly approved match allowances and bonuses, indicating that prompt payment will become standard practice going forward. While the national win was a cause for celebration, discussions are ongoing concerning equitable compensation between the Super Falcons and their male counterparts, calling for balanced pay structures in the sporting domain.

As Nigeria revels in the brilliance of its female footballers, the call for continued support and equitable treatment resonates more significantly than ever amidst this newfound glory.