Minister of art, culture, tourism and creative economy Hannatu Musawa and minister of state for finance Doris Uzoka-Anite joined in the celebration as the Super Falcons were honoured at a presidential dinner following their victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The event was held on Monday night at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, shortly after the team returned from Morocco where they defeated the hosts in a penalty shootout to win their 10th WAFCON title.
Videos from the event showed the ministers dancing with excitement as artistes like Teni, Flavour, Timi Dakolo and Fido performed at the dinner hosted by President Bola Tinubu.
Hannatu Musawa, who accompanied the Falcons to Morocco, had said the team’s performance was a source of pride for Nigeria.
“This victory is a celebration of the strength and resilience of Nigerian women. It brings glory to Nigeria and inspires a new generation,” she said in an earlier statement.
Doris Uzoka-Anite also joined the minister in cheering the team during the final. She later wrote on social media, “What a comeback in Rabat!!! The Super Falcons fought from 0-2 to win 3-2.”
Also present at the event were minister of aviation and aerospace development Festus Keyamo and comedian Seyi Law, who joined in the celebration and posed for photos with the team.
Social media users hailed the ministers and other guests for connecting with the players and showing support not only in official capacity but also in spirit.
The dinner featured performances from several artistes, as the players were treated to music, dancing and cheers.
Each member of the team received the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), a three-bedroom apartment, and the naira equivalent of $100,000. The coaching crew got the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and $50,000 each.
Earlier in the day, the Falcons participated in a victory parade across parts of Abuja before arriving at the State House.
