As the countdown to tonight’s grand finale of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) intensifies, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered a rousing message to Nigeria’s beloved Super Falcons, urging them to soar to glory and clinch their historic 10th continental crown.
In a stirring, personally signed statement released on Saturday, the President hailed the Super Falcons for their phenomenal journey through the tournament, applauding their resilience, dominance, and unyielding spirit that has once again placed Nigeria on the brink of football greatness.
The Super Falcons are set to face tournament hosts Morocco under the floodlights of the Olympic Stadium in Rabat—a match that promises to be nothing short of electric. With the pride of the nation at stake, Tinubu reminded the players that all of Nigeria stands united behind them, willing them on toward victory.
The President praised the team’s “awe-inspiring performance,” noting their flawless run in the group stages, hard-fought victories in the knockout rounds, and an impressively disciplined defence that has conceded just one goal in the semi-finals.
“If statistics alone won matches, you are already champions,” Tinubu declared with confidence, reaffirming the Falcons’ unmatched record in the tournament. Nigeria’s women have won all nine of their previous WAFCON final appearances—a perfect record that sets the stage for yet another triumphant chapter in African football history.
Beyond their athletic brilliance, Tinubu highlighted the team’s admirable sportsmanship and display of African sisterhood. He specifically lauded the Falcons’ visit to South Africa’s injured player Gabriela Salgado after their semi-final clash, describing it as a powerful act of compassion and unity that “reflects our shared humanity, empathy, and sisterly affection.”
“This is the spirit of Africa, and you are its proud ambassadors,” the President noted.
Demonstrating the gravity of the occasion and the full backing of the Federal Government, Tinubu has dispatched a high-powered delegation to Rabat to lend moral support and physically cheer the team to victory. Leading the contingent are key cabinet members including:
Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy
Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of State for Finance
Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission
Also accompanying the delegation are top government officials, members of the Nigerian Mission in Morocco, the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, and representatives of the Nigerian community in the diaspora.
President Tinubu extended heartfelt appreciation to the coaching crew, the families of the players, friends, supporters, and everyone who has stood by the team throughout their WAFCON campaign.
“Your sacrifices and belief in these extraordinary women have carried us this far. Now, together, let us cross the finish line.”
In a powerful close, President Tinubu assured the team of a hero’s welcome in Abuja, where the entire nation eagerly awaits their return—hopefully with the coveted trophy in hand.
“You will finish strong by the Grace of God,” he said. “The hopes and dreams of over 200 million Nigerians ride with you. Go for the tenth. Bring the trophy home!”
As the Super Falcons prepare for tonight’s showdown, the nation holds its breath—brimming with anticipation, belief, and pride. Victory is just 90 minutes away, and the world is watching.
PIONEER NEWS 