BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Nigeria’s all-conquering women’s football team, the Super Falcons, were on Monday treated to a hero’s welcome at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, after emerging champions of the 2025 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, led top officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to receive the team, which secured its record-extending 10th continental title, a feat that cements Nigeria’s unrivalled dominance in African women’s football.
The atmosphere at the airport was electrifying as fans and well-wishers waved flags and sang victory songs, while the players were adorned with garlands and showered with gifts.
Traditional dance troupes also entertained the crowd in celebration of the team’s historic achievement.
Addressing the players, Keyamo described their victory as a source of immense national pride. “This victory is a triumph for the girl-child, a national pride, and a symbol of Nigeria’s unbreakable spirit,” the minister said.
He praised the team’s unity, resilience, and patriotism, adding that their success would inspire young girls across the continent.
From the airport, the team was driven in a celebratory motorcade to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR hosted them in recognition of their stellar performance.
In line with his Renewed Hope Agenda, President Tinubu announced a series of rewards for the Super Falcons.
Each player was conferred with the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) National Honour, alongside a cash gift of $1 million for the team and the keys to brand-new three-bedroom flats at the Renewed Hope Housing Estate in Abuja.
President Tinubu commended the players for bringing glory to the nation, assuring them of his administration’s continued commitment to gender equality in sports and youth development.
“Your victory reflects the resilience of the Nigerian spirit. We will continue to invest in you and reward excellence wherever it is found,” the President said.
The Aviation Minister also pledged greater support for Nigerian athletes, promising smoother travel experiences for national teams in future competitions.
“The aviation sector will continue to back our athletes. We will work with all relevant agencies to ensure seamless travel for Nigeria’s sporting ambassadors,” Keyamo stated.
The Super Falcons’ historic win in Morocco adds yet another golden chapter to Nigeria’s football history and has further cemented the team’s place as Africa’s most successful women’s football side.
Their triumph has ignited celebrations across the country and continues to inspire a new generation of young girls determined to follow in their footsteps.
