Minister Atah celebrates Super Falcons’ WAFCON victory, applaudsTinubu’s support, team’s resilience

The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Atah, has praised President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ stunning and record-breaking victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), hosted in Morocco.

In a thrilling final showdown at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Nigeria’s Super Falcons mounted a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat the host nation, the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco, 3-2. After trailing by two goals in the first half, the Nigerian squad scored three times in the second half to seal their tenth WAFCON title—a feat unmatched by any other national football team, male or female, on the continent.

In a statement released Sunday through his aide, Seyi Olorunsola, the minister described the Falcons’ path through the tournament as an inspiring display of grit, tactical brilliance, and patriotism.

“From the group stages where they defeated formidable opponents like Tunisia, Botswana and Algeria, to the dramatic semifinal winning goal scored by Michelle Alozie against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, the Nigerian ladies showed a level of tenacity and unity that has set a new benchmark for continental excellence,” he said.

He further emphasized  the team’s commitment to their self-declared mission, winning the title for a historic tenth time.

“What makes this victory even more exhilarating is that it was not just about winning a trophy—it was a mission. Mission X, as they dubbed it, was the passionate cry to capture the title for a record tenth time, and they did it with flair, heart, and unquestionable resolve. This accomplishment further establishes the Super Falcons as the most successful female national football team not just in Africa, but arguably the most decorated globally, with 10 WAFCON titles and two earlier African Women’s Championship wins in 1991 and 1995,” he noted.

Atah compared the team’s success with international benchmarks, noting that while Brazil’s women’s team has claimed nine South American titles and the United States team has equaled Nigeria’s tally of ten in their region, Nigeria’s achievement is particularly significant given the country’s limited resources.

The minister, who played football during his school days and in the Nigerian National League, praised the team’s performance as symbolic of Nigeria’s indomitable character.

He lauded the leadership of Head Coach Justine Madugu and the efforts of standout players like Esther Okoronkwo, Asisat Oshoala, Michelle Alozie, and team captain Rasheedat Ajibade. He also singled out goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, whose string of clean sheets before the final proved vital, and emerging midfield talent Deborah Abiodun for her influential performances.

Atah commended President Tinubu’s role in boosting morale and providing support throughout the campaign, pointing to the government’s backing, welfare interventions, and presence at the final as vital elements of the team’s success.

“The President’s commitment under the Renewed Hope Agenda is evidently bringing renewed energy not just to infrastructure and governance, but to our sporting excellence,” Atah said.

As Nigerians prepare to welcome the Super Falcons home, the minister encouraged young people across the country to take motivation from the team’s success.

“Let the story of the Super Falcons serve as a shining beacon that greatness is achievable, regardless of the obstacles. If these women can conquer Africa and inspire the world, then every young Nigerian, from the streets of Kano to the creeks of Bayelsa, can believe in their dreams and make them reality,” he said.

He also reaffirmed the ministry’s support for national progress, particularly in the development of inclusive urban and sporting environments that can help identify and nurture new talent.