WAFCON Q/F: Women Affairs minister celebrates Super Falcons’ triumph over Botswana

[PRESS RELEASE]

CELEBRATORY MESSAGE BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WOMEN AFFAIRS, IMAAN SULAIMAN-IBRAHIM, FSI, ON THE SUPER FALCONS’ VICTORY OVER BOTSWANA AND PROGRESSION TO THE WAFCON QUARTER FINALS ON 10TH JULY, 2025

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When the final whistle echoed across the pitch; it was more than a signal of victory, it was the sound of a nation rising in pride. Our Super Falcons have once again proven; that they are not just athletes, but warriors Queens in boots; graceful, determined, and unshaken. On this note, I extend my warmest congratulations to these amazing and exceptional women on their 1–0 triumph over Botswana; securing a commanding place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This victory is not only a sporting feat; it is a bold reaffirmation of the limitless strength, resilience, and excellence of Nigerian women on the continental stage.

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This moment of pride comes at a time when Nigeria is experiencing a powerful shift; it is Women O’Clock. A time when the voices of women are not only being heard but are helping to shape the future of our nation. This triumph aligns seamlessly with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; an agenda that seeks to build a Nigeria where all citizens, especially women and girls, are empowered to dream, lead, and achieve.

This moment also reflects the compassionate vision of Her Excellency, the First Lady of the Federal Republic, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, whose Renewed Hope Initiative continues to support and spotlight women and children across Nigeria. Her unwavering belief in using sports and social development as vehicles for empowerment is made manifest through this glorious win.

The Super Falcons have once again shown us the incredible outcomes that are possible when women are given the platform to perform. You are not only athletes; you are symbols of possibility, courage, and national unity. You are carrying the aspirations of an entire generation, and the nation is solidly behind you.

As you soar toward greater glory, be assured that Nigerian women, girls, and families across the country are cheering you on. You are the true torchbearers of this moment; proof that women can lead, inspire, and deliver excellence in every arena. We are waiting eagerly to welcome you home with honour and celebration.

This victory is especially timely as it coincides with the ongoing advocacy for the Special Seats Bill, which seeks to secure greater representation for women in Nigeria’s National Assembly. Your performance on the pitch is a live testament to why representation matters. Just as you’ve earned your place on the global stage through merit and resilience, Nigerian women deserve their rightful place in the legislative space.

Importantly, your success also reinforces one of the core pillars of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs: the promotion of family cohesion. Victories like these bring families, communities, and generations together. They foster national pride, emotional connection, and shared values. When girls see their sisters win, parents celebrate, brothers support, and the nation is united in joy. That is the power of sport; it builds bridges and strengthens bonds.

To our gallant Falcons: your journey is a beacon for millions. Keep flying high. You are not just winning games; you are shaping culture, changing narratives, and building legacy. You remind us that the time for women is not coming; it is now.

Fly on, Super Falcons; wings wide with grace, with every stride, you lift our place. In every goal, a nation’s pride,
With you, we rise; unified. Soar high, our heroines, fearless and free; the world may watch, but Nigeria sees destiny.