National Teams
NFF President praises President Tinubu’s reward package for WAFCON-winning Falcons
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unprecedented reward package to the Super Falcons following their triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
In a reception held Monday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu hosted the victorious team and announced national honours and substantial rewards in recognition of their record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Each of the 24 players was awarded the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), along with a three-bedroom apartment and a cash prize of $100,000.
“I am overjoyed because Mr. President has done what no leader before him had done,” Gusau said. “This is a magnificent day for women’s football and indeed, football generally. This action by Mr. President will serve as a fillip to draw out the girl-child in our country to seek greatness through legitimate ways.”
Gusau also emphasized the broader impact of the gesture, stating: “Football has always been the greatest unifier among our peoples across various divides. With this pronouncement, the girl-child will now see that she can achieve greatness through sports or any noble profession.”
The reward package also extended to the team’s technical and administrative staff, with the 11-member crew receiving national honours, three-bedroom apartments, and $50,000 each.
The landmark recognition marks one of the most significant gestures ever bestowed upon a Nigerian women’s team and underscores the government’s renewed commitment to sports development and gender inclusion in football.
