Super Falcons Set For Abuja Trophy Parade, Date With Tinubu After WAFCON Win

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are expected to arrive in Abuja today to a hero’s welcome following their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title win over Morocco in Rabat on Saturday.

According to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Super Falcons will land at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport around midday.

A victory parade across the Federal Capital Territory is scheduled to follow, ending in a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

The Super Falcons, under the guidance of coach Justine Madugu, staged a thrilling comeback to defeat host nation Morocco 3-2 in the final, a dramatic win that secured their place once again at the summit of African women’s football.

NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, confirmed the parade plans on Sunday, noting that the team will ride in an open-roof bus through prominent areas of Abuja, including Airport Road, Berger Junction, Maitama, and Wuse Market.

“We are making arrangements to have a trophy parade with the players and their coaches in an open-roof bus, playing through Airport Road, Berger junction, Maitama and Wuse Market areas all the way to the Presidential Villa,” Sanusi said.

“This will afford a good number of people in those areas to have a rare sight of the Women’s AFCON trophy.”

President Tinubu, who spoke with the team and officials via video call shortly after the win, expressed joy over their success and reaffirmed his commitment to honouring the players.

“As a team, we are very proud of you; the entire nation is proud of you. You lifted our spirits, and we are all very happy,” the President said during the call.

“You will be celebrated, and I congratulate all the coaches and the management of the team, including the ministers and officials. To set the record of victories for the 10th time is not a small feat for the country and the continent as a whole. Safe journey back home, enjoy yourselves and avoid injuries.”

Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade also thanked the President for approving the payment of team bonuses and promised to present the trophy in Abuja. Tinubu, responding with enthusiasm, said, “Good, I am looking forward to that.”

The Super Falcons’ latest triumph adds to their illustrious history in the competition, having previously lifted the WAFCON trophy in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018.