Super Falcons Return To Abuja In Triumph With WAFCON Trophy.
The Super Falcons, Nigeria’s celebrated women’s football team, touched down in Abuja on Monday, 28 July 2025, to a hero’s welcome after clinching their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco. Arriving at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at approximately 2:26 p.m. aboard a chartered flight, the team was greeted by jubilant fans, officials from the National Sports Commission, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), marking a proud moment for Nigerian football.
The squad’s dramatic 3-2 victory over hosts Morocco in the WAFCON final on Saturday night at Rabat’s Stade Olympique showcased their resilience, coming from two goals down to secure the historic win. Goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folasade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini sealed the triumph, with Okoronkwo earning the Most Valuable Player award for the final. The team’s unbeaten run, including a commanding semi-final win over defending champions South Africa, underscored their dominance in African women’s football.
Upon arrival, team captain Rasheedat Ajibade proudly raised the WAFCON trophy as she disembarked, symbolising Nigeria’s latest continental triumph. The NFF organised a vibrant trophy parade through Abuja’s bustling streets, with the team travelling in an open-roof bus along Airport Road, Berger Junction, Maitama, and Wuse Market, allowing fans to catch a glimpse of the coveted trophy. The procession culminated at the Presidential Villa, where President Bola Tinubu hosted the team to celebrate their achievement.
President Tinubu, who approved the payment of the team’s outstanding bonuses and allowances before the final, praised the Super Falcons for their tenacity and spirit, describing their victory as a testament to Nigeria’s determination. In a video call with the players, he expressed eagerness to receive the trophy in Abuja, a promise fulfilled with Monday’s grand reception. Captain Ajibade, voted Player of the Tournament, thanked the President for his support, assuring him the team was thrilled to present the trophy.
The celebration continued with a live concert at Eagles Square in the evening, featuring top Nigerian artists, adding to the festive atmosphere. Fans and officials alike hailed the team’s success, with four players—Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, and Okoronkwo—named in the Confederation of African Football’s Team of the Tournament, while coach Justine Madugu was honoured as Coach of the Tournament.
This victory, dubbed “Mission X” by supporters, not only reinforces the Super Falcons’ legacy as Africa’s most successful women’s football team but also highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in global sports. The Federal Government, National Assembly, and Nigerians nationwide joined in celebrating the team’s extraordinary achievement, with calls for continued investment in women’s football to sustain this legacy.
