Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, has honoured Super Falcons assistant coach, Justine Madugu, with a N50 million cash reward and a three-bedroom bungalow in recognition of his role in Nigeria’s recent triumph at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Morocco.
Coach Madugu, who hails from Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa, was given a hero’s welcome on Friday at the Government House in Yola, where Governor Fintiri praised his patriotism, tactical brilliance and immense contribution to national glory.
Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team clinched a historic 10th WAFCON title earlier this month after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Morocco in the final, cementing their dominance in African women’s football.
Madugu, who served as one of the key technical brains behind the team’s success, was widely praised for his leadership and strategy.
“It is a proud moment for us in Adamawa that one of our own has played such a pivotal role in delivering this continental victory,” Governor Fintiri said during the reception.
“From the onset of his appointment, I had no doubt about his capacity. His technical intelligence and commitment have brought honour to both Nigeria and Adamawa State.”
The governor also used the opportunity to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to sports development.
He cited the construction of modern stadiums in several local government areas and an ultra-modern international stadium currently underway in the state capital.
“We will continue to invest in sports and empower young athletes. I urge Coach Madugu to come home and help mentor the next generation of stars. His achievements are a beacon of hope,” Fintiri said.
In his response, Madugu expressed gratitude to the governor and the people of Adamawa for the recognition.
Describing the honour as one of the proudest moments of his life, he said, “I am overwhelmed and truly grateful. I took on the WAFCON challenge not just for Nigeria, but to show that people from the North can excel at the highest level of football.”
He noted that Adamawa has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s sporting successes, with over 20 athletes currently representing the country across male and female national teams.
Madugu also lauded the Fintiri-led administration for revitalising sports through infrastructure, youth engagement initiatives and local competitions.
However, he called for greater support for women in sports, highlighting the cultural and religious challenges that continue to limit female participation in some parts of the country.
“I appeal for more targeted policies to promote and protect women in sports. We have the talent, we just need to remove the barriers,” he added.
The honour comes as a major boost for sports development in Adamawa State and a recognition of Madugu’s role in what is now regarded as one of Nigeria’s most memorable WAFCON victories.
