In a grand celebration held at Aso Rock on Monday, President Tinubu praised the Super Falcons for their remarkable comeback, defeating the hosts, Morocco, 3-2, and securing their 10th Wafcon title. He announced that each player would receive $100,000 (approximately £75,000) along with a three-bedroom apartment as a token of appreciation.
Upon their arrival at Abuja's main airport, the team was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd, including traditional dancers, drummers, journalists, and government officials. During the reception at the presidential residence, Tinubu conferred national honors on all players and staff, acknowledging their contributions to Nigerian sports.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade passionately expressed that their victory was meant for every girl who dreams big. She emphasized that to become the best team globally, continued support from both the football federation and the government is essential.
The Super Falcons have a remarkable record, having won 10 out of 13 Wafcon editions since its inception in 1998. The president hailed this latest achievement as a significant milestone in sports history.
However, despite the celebration, concerns persist regarding the past treatment of both men's and women's national football teams in Nigeria, which has faced challenges regarding delayed payments and salary disputes. Past promises made to pay bonuses and salaries have often gone unfulfilled, and there have been calls for equal pay for the Super Falcons, akin to their male counterparts.
While the president assured that players' match allowances and bonuses would be handled promptly in the future, the echoes of previous protests by the Super Falcons regarding pay disparities are a reminder of the ongoing fight for parity in sports. As the team basks in its well-deserved accolades, supporters hope that this will usher in a new era of respect and equity for Nigerian athletes.
