Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, alongside the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, joined the nationwide celebration as the Super Falcons were honoured at a presidential dinner on Monday night following their triumphant win at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The celebratory event took place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, shortly after the team returned from Morocco, where they defeated the host nation in a tense penalty shootout to clinch their record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Ministers Dance and Celebrate With Falcons
Viral clips from the event showed both Musawa and Uzoka-Anite dancing enthusiastically as Nigerian music stars Teni, Flavour, Timi Dakolo, and Fido performed live.
Musawa, who had accompanied the Falcons to Morocco, expressed her admiration for the team’s historic achievement:
“This victory is a celebration of the strength and resilience of Nigerian women. It brings glory to Nigeria and inspires a new generation,” she said in a statement earlier.
Uzoka-Anite also celebrated the win on social media, reflecting on the team’s heroic comeback:
“What a comeback in Rabat!!! The Super Falcons fought from 0-2 to win 3-2,” she wrote.
Honour, Awards & Recognition
During the dinner, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred prestigious national honours on the team. Each player received:
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Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)
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A three-bedroom apartment
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The naira equivalent of $100,000
Members of the coaching crew were awarded the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and $50,000 each.
Guests and Performances
Other notable attendees included Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and comedian Seyi Law, who posed for photos with the team and joined in the celebrations. The evening was filled with joyful performances, dancing, and cheers, as the atmosphere reflected the pride and unity brought by the team’s remarkable success.
Victory Parade
Earlier in the day, the Super Falcons held a victory parade across major parts of Abuja, greeting enthusiastic fans before making their way to the State House for the formal reception.
A Win Beyond Football
The reception and recognition reflect the deep national pride stirred by the Super Falcons’ achievement. Social media users praised the ministers for showing genuine support and enthusiasm beyond their official roles, describing it as a rare moment of unity and joy in Nigerian sport.
