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Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide express disappointment over Lagos State’s silence on WAFCON victory
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigerian football stars Asisat Oshoala and Rinsola Babajide, members of the triumphant senior women’s national team, have publicly voiced their disappointment over the Lagos State Government’s lack of official recognition or reception following Nigeria’s historic victory at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Super Falcons secured their 10th WAFCON title with a dramatic 3–2 win over host nation Morocco in the final played on Saturday, July 26.
In the aftermath of the win, several high-profile rewards have been announced. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu awarded each player $100,000 and a three-bedroom home, while Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma recognized seven players and one coach from his state with ₦30 million and plots of land. Assistant coach Ann Chiejine also received ₦10 million.
However, in Lagos — home state to both Oshoala and Babajide — there has been no official reception, award, or ceremony, a development that has drawn reactions from the players.
Oshoala, a five-time African Women’s Player of the Year and native of Lagos, posted a cryptic message on Instagram:
“My Imo sisters dey hot oo …. God abeg #Lagosian.”
Babajide, who also hails from Lagos, was more direct in her reaction on X (formerly Twitter):
“Was really looking forward to meeting Babajide Sanwo-Olu but Lagos State governor no wan invite us.”
She later modified the post to:
“Lagos state governor no want invite us.”
The reaction has sparked conversations on social media, especially given Governor Sanwo-Olu’s past engagements with Super Falcons players.
In 2023, the governor hosted Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Monday Gift following their World Cup appearance, and he had also met with Oshoala in 2020 in relation to her foundation’s activities.
Thus far, the only public response from the Lagos State Governor regarding the WAFCON win has been a congratulatory message posted on social media, which read:
“Congratulations to our incredible Super Falcons on their well-deserved WAFCON victory. This win is a reminder of what can happen when talent, discipline, and belief come together.”
While the message has been acknowledged, many fans and stakeholders argue that tangible recognition is warranted for athletes who have brought pride to the state and the country.
With public attention growing, many will be watching to see whether the Lagos State Government will respond further to honour the contributions of its celebrated football ambassadors.
