Nigerian government redeems its pledge to reward Super Falcons with cash and houses

NIGERIA'S federal government has finally fulfilled its promise to the Super Falcons for winning the last Women's African Cup of Nations (Wafcon) by handing over the houses and cash payments of $100,000 to each team member.

Last year, Nigeria won the delayed 2024 Wafcon tournament, for an unprecedented 10th time, beating hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final. After the historic victory, the federal government promised to reward the girls but up until now, this pledge had yet to be redeemed but now, on the eve of the 2026 tournament, the Falcons have received a morale-boosting conformation of the redemption.

Tomorrow, the Super Falcons will kick off their 2026 tournament when they take on Malawi in Rabat and will then face Egypt and Zambia in Group C. This payment on the eve of their defence of the crown, ewill ease weeks of concern over the delayed rewards and give the team a major morale boost.

Mallam Shehu Dikko, the chairman of the National Sports Commission, confirmed that all financial commitments had been completed and that the presentation of the house keys would take place this week. Speaking at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, he added that the money was paid straight into the players' bank accounts.

Mallam Dikko said: “I am leaving Glasgow for Morocco this week to present key to the houses, which His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu promised the Super Falcons after they won the last edition of Wafcon. Even their $100,000 has been paid into their various bank account.

"We decided to delay the presentation of the key because we wanted a situation, whereby the players will be together. I am sure it will boost their morale ahead of the 2026 Wafcon event, which will kick off in Morocco in a few days.”

Earlier this week, members of the current Super Falcons squad openly expressed concern that the outstanding promises could affect the team's confidence as they prepared for another demanding continental campaign. Those fears have now been addressed with the confirmation that the money has reached the players' bank accounts and that the houses will officially be handed over.

This year's Wafcon runs from July 26 to August 16 in Morocco, which is hosting the tournament for the third consecutive time. For the first time, the competition has expanded to 16 teams, while the eventual champions will receive a record $2m in prize money and the four semi-finalists will qualify automatically for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.

Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has retained much of the squad that won the last title with injured defender Ashley Plumptre being the only major absentee. Midfield stars Jennifer Echegini, Deborah Abiodun, Christy Ucheibe, and Tony Payne who all played major roles last time around are all expected to play leading roles again.