Chijioke Gabriel
President Bola Tinubu has sent a message of encouragement to Nigeria’s Super Falcons ahead of their WAFCON 2024 final clash with host nation Morocco, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to bring home a historic 10th title.
The final, set to take place tonight at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, marks a crucial moment in Nigeria’s bid to extend their record as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.
In a statement personally signed on Saturday, Tinubu praised the Falcons for their unbeaten performance throughout the tournament and described their journey as “awe-inspiring.”
“You have represented our country with pride, honour, and strength,” the President said. “On and off the pitch, you have demonstrated true sportsmanship.”
He applauded the team’s show of empathy following their visit to South African player Gabriela Salgado, who was injured in the semifinal. “That simple act of compassion reflects our shared humanity and sisterly affection, which we Africans hold in high regard,” Tinubu noted.
Encouraging the players to “finish strong,” he added: “Go for the tenth! Bring the trophy home. Your fellow countrymen and women, young and old, are rooting for you. I look forward to receiving the team, the trophy, and the officials in Abuja.”
Tinubu also underscored the team’s impeccable record in previous finals and their outstanding defensive run in the tournament, having conceded just one goal in the knockout stages.
To underline the importance of the final, the President dispatched a high-level delegation to Morocco to support the team. The delegation includes 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.
Tinubu extended his gratitude to the families of the players, coaches, Nigerian supporters in Morocco, and the Nigerian Mission for their unwavering support throughout the tournament.
The Super Falcons will be aiming to crown their stellar campaign with a win tonight and cement their place as undisputed African champions.