Super Falcons received a rousing welcome as they arrived in Lagos with the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy, fresh off their historic victory, after a grand reception at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
A jubilant crowd gathered to celebrate the team’s arrival on Wednesday, cheering and chanting as the players, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, landed with the coveted trophy.
Fans waved flags and sang as the team continued their victory tour following their triumph in Morocco.
The Lagos State Government is expected to host the team, with a trophy parade scheduled as part of the celebrations.
The Falcons had earlier been received by President Bola Tinubu, who conferred on all 24 players and the 11-member technical crew the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
The president also announced a monetary reward of $100,000 (in naira equivalent) for each player and $50,000 for each member of the technical crew.
In addition, each team member received a three-bedroom flat.
President Tinubu praised the players for their “indomitable spirit of resilience, determination and courage,” noting that their 3–2 win over host nation Morocco was a proud moment for the country.
He also received the trophy from Ajibade, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
“I didn’t want to have high blood pressure,” the president joked during the ceremony, explaining why he did not watch the final match live.
The Super Falcons’ unbeaten run and standout performances by players such as Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie and Esther Okoronkwo have been widely celebrated, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a dominant force in African women’s football.
