President Bola Tinubu has revealed how the gripping final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) between Nigeria and Morocco had such an emotional pull that even the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, left her cooking to join in watching the Super Falcons’ historic victory.
The President shared the tale on Monday during a reception at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, held in honour of the triumphant Super Falcons, who secured Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title with a thrilling 3–2 comeback win over the host nation on Saturday night.
“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want to have high blood pressure,” Tinubu said, drawing laughter from the crowd.
“But they turned on the television. When it was 2-0, I got offended and restless.”
He continued with a lighthearted revelation that earned applause from guests, “You almost made me angrier because your mother, the First Lady, was in the kitchen, nearly abandoning my dinner. She doesn’t watch football except when the girls are playing. And at the final whistle, it was joy all over the country.”
The President lauded the team for their resilience, saying they had given Nigerians a reason to celebrate.
“You gave us joy, not heartbreak. You inspired millions, especially young girls, who now know that their dreams are valid,” he said.
“Your victory is a symbol of hope, courage, and national pride.”
The reception came hours after the Super Falcons landed in Abuja from Morocco to a heroic welcome.
The team paraded their trophy across parts of the Federal Capital Territory before heading to the Aso Rock Villa.
During the ceremony, Tinubu conferred the national honour of officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on the 24 players and 11-member technical crew.
He also gifted each player a three-bedroom apartment and a cash reward of $100,000 (in naira equivalent), while the technical team members received $50,000 each.
The 2024 WAFCON, widely regarded as one of the most competitive editions in history, cemented Nigeria’s legacy in African women’s football.
