President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on all members of the victorious Super Falcons squad and their 11-man technical team, in a historic state reception that marked one of the grandest celebrations in Nigerian sports history. The honours were announced on Monday, July 28, 2025, following the team’s record-setting 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title win over Morocco.
Each player and technical staff member will receive a three-bedroom apartment at the Renewed Hope Estate, Abuja, under the Federal Government’s housing initiative, as part of the presidential reward. Tinubu also announced a $100,000 (₦153 million) cash reward to each player and $50,000 (₦76.75 million) to each member of the technical crew—bringing the total presidential gift package to over $2.9 million.
The accolades didn’t stop at Aso Rock. Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Governors Forum, revealed that all 36 state governors collectively agreed to reward each Super Falcons player with an additional ₦10 million cash gift, further raising the total appreciation fund and adding political weight to the team’s victory celebration.
President Tinubu, visibly proud, hailed the Falcons as “champions of hope” and “daughters of destiny,” praising their resilience during the dramatic 3–2 comeback win over the Moroccan Atlas Lionesses on Saturday, July 26, in Rabat. “You have not only made history but have inspired a continent. Nigeria is proud of you,” Tinubu said.
The President emphasized the government’s commitment to investing in women’s football and announced plans for a renewed sports infrastructure programme targeting grassroots development and athlete welfare. First Lady Senator Remi Tinubu also praised the team’s discipline and unity, urging Nigerians to emulate the Falcons’ spirit.
Reactions have poured in from across the globe, with international media spotlighting Nigeria’s unprecedented recognition of its female athletes. Social media platforms erupted with support under trending hashtags like #SuperFalconsHonoured, #10thTitle, and #RenewedHopeInAction, while many Nigerians called the gesture a new benchmark for sporting recognition in Africa.
As the Super Falcons continue their victory parade across Abuja, the rewards are more than just material—they are a national message of respect, legacy, and elevation. For many young girls watching, Monday was more than a moment of glory; it was proof that excellence in sport commands national reverence.
