In a resounding show of support and appreciation, telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria has awarded a staggering ₦150 million to the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s national women’s football team, for their breathtaking victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The triumphant team, which clinched its 10th continental title in a dramatic final against hosts Morocco, was celebrated at a special reception in Lagos, where the generous reward was announced.
The ceremony, which was as celebratory as it was significant, highlighted the Super Falcons’ grit, resilience, and unwavering spirit that propelled them to an incredible comeback win.
Trailing 2-0 at halftime, the Falcons rallied in a display of true champion mettle, scoring three unanswered goals in the second half to secure a 3-2 victory. This historic win not only extended their dominance on the continent but also solidified their status as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young girls and women across Nigeria.
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MTN’s recognition of the team goes beyond a simple cash prize. It is a powerful statement about the growing importance of women’s football and the need for private sector investment to support and elevate female athletes.
The company, which has been a long-time partner of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), used the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to the development of football in Nigeria, particularly the women’s game.
During the event, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, lauded the Super Falcons as national icons and role models. “You are more than athletes; you are inspirations,” he said, speaking directly to the team.
“You are proof that when Nigerian women rise, the world takes notice.” The ₦150 million award, he explained, was a token of appreciation for their dedication and a testament to the fact that their hard work had not gone unnoticed.
According to the company’s director, Ifueko Okauru, the funds would be distributed with ₦115 million going to the players and ₦35 million to the technical team, ensuring that every member of the squad and staff is recognized for their contribution.
The Super Falcons’ victory has been met with an outpouring of support and accolades from all corners of the country. This includes a previously announced reward package from the Federal Government, which saw each player and technical crew member receive a national honor, a cash reward, and a furnished three-bedroom house.
These combined incentives signal a new era for women’s football in Nigeria, where the achievements of female athletes are finally being given the recognition and financial backing they deserve.
Team captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, speaking on behalf of her teammates, expressed her gratitude to MTN and other supporters.
“We feel valued, we feel honored, and we feel respected,” she said. “This inspires us to do better and keep inspiring the next generation.” She also made a heartfelt plea for continued support from the government, the NFF, and corporate bodies, emphasizing the team’s ambition to become global contenders.
The Super Falcons’ journey to their 10th WAFCON title was a masterclass in determination. Their performance throughout the tournament, culminating in the thrilling final, showcased not only their individual talent but also their collective resilience.
The team’s ability to overcome a two-goal deficit on foreign soil against the home team is a narrative that will be retold for years to come—a story of a team that refused to give up, a team that fought for every ball, and a team that ultimately conquered.
As the celebrations wind down, the focus will now shift to the future. The Super Falcons’ WAFCON triumph is a stepping stone to even bigger challenges, including the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup. With the kind of support and recognition they are now receiving from both the public and private sectors, the Super Falcons are well-positioned to build on this success and continue to make Nigeria proud on the global stage.
This ₦150 million award from MTN is not just a reward for a past victory; it is an investment in a promising future. It is a message that their triumphs matter, and their potential is limitless.
