NFF Explains Why Super Falcons Couldn’t Parade WAFCON Trophy in Abuja

NFF Explains Why Super Falcons Couldn’t Parade WAFCON Trophy in Abuja

By Niyi Busari 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clarified why the Super Falcons were unable to hold a planned trophy parade in Abuja following their historic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Nigerian women’s national team clinched their record-extending 10th WAFCON title on Saturday night with a dramatic 3–2 comeback win over host nation Morocco at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. 

The triumph marked a new chapter in Nigerian football, with widespread national celebrations expected to follow.

As part of the post-tournament festivities, the NFF had announced that the team would parade the newly designed WAFCON trophy through the streets of Abuja aboard an open-roof bus, giving residents an opportunity to celebrate with the champions.

However, those plans were disrupted by heavy rainfall in the capital city, which forced a change in logistics. According to NFF Director of Communications, Dr. Demola Olajire, the inclement weather made the open-roof procession unsafe and impractical.

“The rain didn’t allow for open-roof bus movement,” Dr. Olajire said in an exclusive chat with BSN Sports on Monday.

Despite the change in plans, the Super Falcons proceeded directly from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to the Aso Villa, where they were received by President Bola Tinubu.

During the reception, President Tinubu announced a suite of rewards for the team, including ₦150 million for each player, a three-bedroom flat, and the conferment of the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). Members of the coaching crew also received corresponding awards.