Telecommunications company MTN Nigeria on Thursday rewarded the Super Falcons with a total sum of N150 million following their victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The reward was announced during a welcome event held in Lagos in honour of the team.
MTN chief executive officer, Karl Toriola, said N115 million would go to the players while N35 million would be allocated to the team collectively.
Mr Toriola expressed MTN’s ongoing support for women in various sectors, including sports.
He recalled the team’s performance during the final match in Rabat, where Nigeria came from behind to defeat Morocco 3-2.
He noted that MTN had previously presented a proposal in 2021 to its board advocating long-term financial investment in the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), which has seen returns through the achievements of both the Super Eagles and Super Falcons.
“We followed you through every match, every challenge, and every outcome. We will continue to support you,” he said.
Toriola also thanked the NFF and the team for uniting Nigerians and contributing to national pride.
MTN’s chief marketing officer, Onyinye Emeka, acknowledged Nigeria’s record of ten WAFCON titles out of 13 tournaments held so far, describing it as a major accomplishment.
She said the company invited women who have distinguished themselves in different fields to join in the celebration of the team’s efforts.
In her remarks, MTN general manager Aisha Mumuni said the Super Falcons’ performance gave many Nigerians a sense of hope.
Team captain Rashidat Ajibade, speaking on behalf of the players, expressed appreciation for the recognition.
She said the team felt honoured and motivated to aim for greater heights.
Ajibade called for continued investment and cooperation among the football federation, government and private sector to help the team compete at the global level.
She said, “We want to go further. We want to become global contenders. We need everyone to keep believing and investing in the Super Falcons.”
The 2024 WAFCON final took place on Saturday, in Rabat, where the Super Falcons defeated hosts Morocco 3-2 to win the title.
