Nigeria’s Super Falcons have received the houses and $100,000 cash rewards promised by the Federal Government following their last Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph, just days before the team begins the defence of its continental title in Morocco.
The development ends months of uncertainty over the delayed incentives and comes as a timely boost for the defending champions ahead of the 2026 WAFCON, which begins this weekend.
Government fulfils Tinubu’s promise
National Sports Commission (NSC) chairman Shehu Dikko confirmed that the cash rewards had already been paid into the players’ bank accounts, while the official presentation of the house keys will take place in Morocco.
Speaking from Glasgow, where he is attending the 2026 Commonwealth Games, Dikko said he would travel to Morocco to complete the process.
“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 the WAFCON.”
He added:
“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.”
Dikko believes the gesture will provide extra motivation as Nigeria seeks another continental title.
“I am sure it will boost their morale ahead of the 2026 WAFCON event, which will kick off in Morocco in a few days.”
Falcons begin title defence
President Bola Tinubu announced the reward package after Nigeria defeated hosts Morocco to win the 2025 WAFCON, but the delay in delivering the incentives had attracted criticism from supporters and former players.
The issue resurfaced earlier this week when members of the current squad expressed concern over the outstanding promises before travelling to Morocco.
Nigeria head into the tournament as defending champions and favourites to win a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group C alongside Malawi, Zambia and Egypt, with all three group matches scheduled to be played in Rabat.
Head coach Justin Madugu has retained the core of the squad that lifted the trophy last year, while the team also heads into the competition on the back of a 2-1 victory over Tanzania in its final warm-up match.