President promises national celebration as team eyes trophy presentation at Aso Villa
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s Super Falcons following their historic 3-2 victory over host nation Morocco in the finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), urging the players to enjoy their well-deserved win and return safely to Nigeria.
In a video call held on Sunday morning with team captain Rasheedat Ajibade and other jubilant players and officials, President Tinubu expressed pride in the team’s achievement, describing their record 10th WAFCON title as a moment of national pride.
“Safe journey home, enjoy yourselves, avoid injuries. God bless you,” he said, as the players repeatedly responded with, “Thank you, Mr President!”
The president, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said he looks forward to receiving the trophy at the Presidential Villa.
“I am very, very proud of you. The entire nation is proud of you. You have lifted our spirits. You are a pride to your generation, and we are all very happy,” Tinubu told the team.
He assured the players and coaching crew that they would be duly celebrated, extending his appreciation to the technical staff, the Ministry of Sports, and other officials who supported the team’s journey.
The president singled out team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was named both the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and Woman of the Tournament, for special praise.
He also commended Esther Okoronkwo for her composure under pressure, applauding her successful penalty in the 64th minute, which marked the beginning of Nigeria’s remarkable comeback. Okoronkwo also assisted the second goal and delivered the decisive free-kick that led to Jennifer Echegini’s match-winning goal.
Speaking on behalf of her teammates, Ajibade expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for authorising the full payment of the players’ allowances. She assured him the team was excited to present the trophy in Abuja.
The call concluded with a spirited rendition of the Nigerian national anthem and three rousing “Gbosa!” cheers in honour of the president.
