WAFCON -Nigeria’s Minister of Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has praised the Super Falcons for their dramatic and historic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), calling the performance a shining symbol of resilience, national pride, and the boundless potential of Nigerian women in sports.
The Super Falcons pulled off an extraordinary comeback in Sunday’s final against hosts Morocco, overturning a 2-0 first-half deficit to win 3-2 in a pulsating and emotionally charged match. The victory secured Nigeria’s 12th WAFCON title and reaffirmed the Super Falcons’ reputation as the most dominant force in African women’s football.
In a statement issued by her Special Adviser on Media, Nneka Ikem, Minister Musawa—who watched the match live in the company of the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite—commended the Falcons for their fighting spirit, discipline, and flair, which saw them overcome tremendous odds on foreign soil.
“I am thrilled to celebrate the Super Falcons of Nigeria on their remarkable achievement in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON),” Musawa said. “Their 3-2 win over Morocco is a testament to their skill, determination and unwavering dedication to representing our great nation.”
Culture Minister Hails Super Falcons for Stunning WAFCON Victory
She went on to highlight how the team’s performance was more than just a sporting victory—it was a moment of national significance that captured the essence of Nigerian resilience. Musawa described the comeback as “a beacon of hope and a reminder that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.”
The Falcons, led by Coach Randy Waldrum, stunned the home crowd in Rabat with a second-half resurgence, led by star forward Asisat Oshoala and midfielder Toni Payne. After a difficult first half that saw Nigeria concede two early goals, the team rallied with renewed energy and tactical precision, scoring three unanswered goals to clinch the title in dramatic fashion.
Minister Musawa acknowledged the deeper cultural and emotional impact of the Falcons’ victory, especially for Nigerian women and young girls who see in the team a reflection of their own aspirations.
“This victory is not only a triumph for Nigerian football but also a celebration of the strength and resilience of Nigerian women,” she noted. “As the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, I recognise their outstanding performance and commend the team’s commitment to excellence.”
She further stated that the win would help elevate women’s sports in the country and serve as a catalyst for greater investment in youth development, especially in the creative and athletic industries.
“The Falcons have inspired millions of young Nigerians, particularly girls, to believe in themselves and to know that their dreams are valid,” Musawa added. “In every sense, this team embodies the creative spirit of Nigeria—bold, imaginative, and fiercely determined.”
The 2024 WAFCON tournament had been especially competitive, with Morocco emerging as a formidable host and finalist. However, Nigeria’s tactical brilliance and big-match experience ultimately made the difference. The Falcons have now won more WAFCON titles than any other team on the continent, a legacy that Musawa believes should be celebrated as a cultural milestone.
The Minister also extended her congratulations to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the coaching staff, and the team’s support crew, saying their behind-the-scenes efforts were instrumental in ensuring the team’s success.
In her closing remarks, Musawa called on both public and private sectors to increase support for women’s football and sports development at large, stressing that the Falcons’ victory should serve as a springboard for lasting change and recognition of women’s contributions to Nigeria’s international image.
“As we celebrate this historic win, let us not forget the importance of continuous support. These athletes have put Nigeria on the global map once again, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the recognition, support, and investment they deserve,” she said.
The Super Falcons’ 2024 WAFCON triumph will go down as one of the most memorable moments in Nigeria’s sports history—a night when grit, passion, and national pride triumphed against all odds.
Source- Punchng
