Nigeria's women's national football team, the Super Falcons, recently celebrated a significant victory at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon), where they triumphed over Morocco with a 3-2 comeback win. The event not only marked their 10th title in the tournament's history but also prompted a grand reception from President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock presidential residence. During the event, Tinubu pledged each player a monetary reward of $100,000 (£75,000) and a three-bedroom apartment, invigorating the squad of 24 women, who wept and cheered upon hearing the announcement.
Tinubu hailed the national team's victory as an embodiment of "courage, determination, and consistency." He recounted his anxiety during the game, expressing pride in their accomplishments as they arrived back in Nigeria to a joyful celebration led by traditional dancers, drummers, and press. Each member of the team received the Officer of the Order of the Niger honor in appreciation from the nation.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade passionately stated that their triumph signifies hope and inspiration for young girls nationwide aspiring to achieve greatness. She highlighted the necessary support from both the Nigerian football federation and the government for the team to elevate its status globally.
Despite the celebratory mood, skepticism looms due to a history of unfulfilled promises from previous governments regarding financial rewards and bonuses to both men's and women's teams. The Super Falcons have been vocal about past financial grievances, and their victorious counterparts, the Super Eagles, received their promised homes only recently, three decades after their own victory. Moreover, the call for equal pay between the Super Falcons and men's counterparts has been a persistent issue, especially considering the financial disparities between the teams.
As the victorious team is celebrated, President Tinubu's assurance to standardize prompt disbursal of match allowances and bonuses signals a hopeful turnaround for the players. However, the focus remains on whether these promises will be effectively fulfilled, as past experiences create a backdrop of caution in the face of jubilation. Only time will tell if the Super Falcons will receive their deserved rewards without redundant delays.
