Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has rolled out jaw-dropping rewards for the seven Super Falcons players and one official of Imo origin who helped Nigeria clinch the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco. Each honouree received ₦30 million and a plot of land in a prime location in Owerri, making it one of the most generous state-level sports recognitions in Nigerian history.
The grand reception held Saturday at the Government House Banquet Hall in Owerri was filled with thunderous applause and praise for the players, who have now become the pride of the South-East. Governor Uzodimma said the gesture was not just a reward but a statement that Imo celebrates excellence and patriotism. “Imo people are happy with our girls. They’ve made Nigeria proud, and we will continue to support them,” he said.
The players honoured were: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Africa’s top female goalkeeper), Jennifer Echegini, Tochukwu Oluchi, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, and Ifeoma Onumonu. A technical team member of Imo descent was also among the beneficiaries of the state’s honour roll.
Uzodimma, visibly moved, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing the team at the federal level and said Imo was proud to localize the recognition. “The majority of the Super Falcons are our daughters. It’s only proper we give them their flowers now,” he declared.
He urged women and girls across Imo to emulate the Falcons and aim for excellence in all fields, especially in sports. “Let this be a clarion call to our daughters—you too can be national heroes,” he said to loud cheers from the audience.
The celebration featured a toast by Chief Bob Njemanze and was graced by top dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, Speaker of the State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, House of Representatives member Rt. Hon. Chike Okafor, federal ministers, APC South-East leaders, traditional rulers, and respected elder statesmen such as Chief Tony Chukwu and Chief Malcolm Nlemigbo.
Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, praised the Governor’s consistent investment in sports infrastructure and talent development, noting that the honour showed the dividends of visionary leadership. “This is proof that when you invest in the youth, the entire society wins,” he said.
