By Muhammad Mamman
As Nigeria’s Super Falcons prepare to face host nation Morocco in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday, President Bola Tinubu has rallied the team to finish strong and bring home a record-breaking 10th continental title.
In a statement personally signed and released on Saturday, President Tinubu expressed pride in the team’s achievements and spirit throughout the tournament.
“You will finish strong by the Grace of God. Go for the tenth! Bring the trophy home. Your fellow countrymen and women—young and old—are solidly behind you,” he declared. “I look forward to receiving the team, the trophy, and the officials in Abuja.”
The President praised the Super Falcons for their impressive performance, highlighting their resilience, unity, and sportsmanship on and off the pitch.
“Tonight, you stand on the brink of history as you take on Morocco at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. Your journey over the past three weeks has been nothing short of inspirational. You have worn the green and white with pride, honour, and strength,” Tinubu said.
He singled out the team’s act of compassion following their semi-final victory over South Africa, where players visited injured Banyana Banyana star Gabriela Salgado in hospital.
“That simple gesture captured the true spirit of sportsmanship. I was heartened to see the photos of your visit to Gabriela Salgado. Such kindness reflects the values of empathy, unity, and sisterhood that define African football and humanity,” he said.
President Tinubu also assured the team of the unwavering support of his administration and the Nigerian people.
“If statistics alone could win trophies, you’ve already secured it. You’ve gone unbeaten in the group stage, triumphed in the knockout rounds, and conceded just one goal in the semi-finals. You are a team of champions.”
He concluded with a message of hope and support: “On behalf of a grateful nation, we are all rooting for you. May you crown this campaign with a historic 10th WAFCON title.”
To underline the importance of the occasion, Tinubu has dispatched a presidential delegation to attend the final in Rabat. The delegation includes the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim; and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, among others.
The President also extended his appreciation to the players’ families, coaching staff, friends, Nigerian fans in Morocco, the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, and the Nigerian Mission in Morocco for their steadfast encouragement throughout the tournament.
