The Federal Government has concluded plans to receive the victorious Super Falcons, who conquered Africa in their quest for a record 10th Africa Women Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco.

The Nigerian women’s football team stunned Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses and their fans with a dramatic come-from-behind 3-2 win on Saturday night in the final at the fully packed Stade Olympique de Rabat.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said on Sunday that residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and its environs will have a rare opportunity to view the Women Africa Cup of Nations trophy when the Super Falcons arrive in Nigeria on Monday.

The triumphant contingent is scheduled to arrive at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by noon on Monday (today) and the NFF is making arrangements for them to proceed to the Presidential Villa in an open-roof bus along populated routes, with the iconic trophy in full view for onlookers.

“We are making arrangements to have a trophy parade with the players and their coaches in an open-roof bus, plying through Airport Road, Berger Junction, Maitama, and Wuse Market areas, all the way to the Presidential Villa. This will afford many people the chance to see the Women’s AFCON trophy,” NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said on Sunday.

Sanusi further disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) is scheduled to host the team at the Presidential Villa on Monday afternoon.

President Tinubu had earlier assured the Super Falcons of a befitting celebration upon their return from Morocco.

In a video call with the players and officials, he said: “As a team, we are very proud of you; the entire nation is proud of you. You lifted our spirits, and we are all very happy.
You will be celebrated, and I congratulate all the coaches and the management of the team, including the ministers and officials. To set the record of victories for the 10th time is no small feat for the country and the continent. Safe journey back home, enjoy yourselves, and avoid injuries.”

The President also hailed Rasheedat Ajibade, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and won the Woman of the Tournament award.

He praised Esther Okoronkwo for her composure during a crucial moment in the final, describing her 64th-minute penalty kick, which sparked Nigeria’s dramatic comeback as “very courageous.” Okoronkwo also created the second goal and delivered the decisive free-kick that Jennifer Echegini converted to seal Nigeria’s 3-2 victory.

“Safe journey home, enjoy yourselves, avoid injuries, God bless you,” the President told the jubilant players and officials, who repeatedly responded with, “Thank you, Mr. President!”

Responding on behalf of the team, Captain Rasheedat Ajibade thanked the President for approving the full payment of players’ allowances. She assured him the team was eager to present the WAFCON trophy to him in Abuja.

In a related development, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, hailed the Super Falcons’ comeback spirit and extraordinary resilience that earned them the hard-fought victory.

In separate congratulatory messages, the ministers described the victory as a product of visionary leadership, strategic management, and the indomitable spirit of Nigerian athletes.

Tuggar, in a statement by his media aide, Alkasim Abdulkadir, praised the team’s discipline, unity, and unwavering determination, calling them “true ambassadors of Nigerian excellence on the global stage.”

“The Super Falcons have once again shown what it means to represent Nigeria with pride and purpose,” Tuggar said, lauding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strong support for sports development and commending the NFF under Mr. Shehu Dikko for its leadership and commitment to women’s football.

“This victory is the result of purposeful leadership, sound management, and the unshakable spirit of Nigerian athletes. I congratulate President Tinubu, Mr. Shehu Dikko, and the entire NFF family for creating the enabling environment for this triumph.

Their victory is not only a sporting achievement but a diplomatic symbol of Nigeria’s strength, unity, and global presence,” he stated.

In another message, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the Nigerian ladies as the nation’s strongest ambassadors.

“You have once again made us proud. You didn’t allow the setback of the first half to weigh you down. Fueled by the typical Nigerian spirit, you came into the second stanza of the game and stamped your authority in every department, dominating it, despite the vociferous support for the host opponents. With your fantastic and stunning performance, you silenced the crowd.

The truth is that you displayed the heart of true champions: exceptional character, discipline, resilience, unity of purpose — and the mission was emphatically accomplished to the consternation of the hosts.

You are our immutable and strongest ambassadors. I thank you for once again making Nigeria proud,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said.

Also, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and his deputy, Benjamin Kalu, have congratulated Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, on their historic 10th WAFCON title.

In a statement on Sunday, Speaker Abbas described the victory over hosts Morocco in Saturday night’s final as “well-deserved” and a testament to the team’s resilience and excellence.

“This triumph is a relief to our football-loving nation. The WAFCON trophy symbolises patriotism, hard work, and unwavering tenacity,” Abbas stated, even as he urged the Federal Government to duly appreciate the team for their achievement.

Speaking in the same vein, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu praised the Super Falcons for displaying exceptional skill, courage, and determination.

He said: “Their triumph is not just about a trophy; it’s a symbol of the unstoppable rise of Nigerian women in sports, governance, and beyond.
Your passion and unmatched skill have once again made us all proud. You played with your heart and an undeterred spirit that reflects the true strength of Nigerian women.
This triumph is more than just a trophy. It’s a symbol of the diligence, resilience, and unstoppable rise of women, not just in sports, but in every other aspect of our society. It’s a reminder that women are capable of achieving great things with the right support.

From every corner of our nation, we salute you, standing in ovation for this laudable achievement. Thank you for flying the Nigerian flag high.”