Nigerians living in South Africa have extended their warmest congratulations to the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, on their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title win.
The team made history on Saturday, July 26 by defeating Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses 3-2 in the final of the competition.
The victory has sparked jubilation among Nigerians in South Africa, with members of the Nigerian community gathering in pubs, viewing centers, and homes to watch the final.
Celebrations erupted after the final whistle, with fans waving the Green-White-Green flags, singing old football chants, and even performing traditional dances in open spaces.
According to Mr. Smart Nwobi, President of the Nigeria Union in South Africa (NUSA), the Super Falcons’ win is a unifying moment that rekindled national pride in a time of widespread economic and political challenges back home.
“This victory is symbolic. It tells us that when we fight together as a team and believe in our strength, we can overcome any odds,” Nwobi said in a statement emailed to Persecondnews.
Nwobi also urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) not to rest on its laurels, emphasizing that preparation for the title defense should begin immediately.
“The standard of women’s football in Africa has improved significantly. Countries like Morocco, Zambia, and South Africa are investing heavily. This implies that opposition will be stronger in future tournaments,” he cautioned.
NUSA President Nwobi also advised the diaspora community to adopt partnerships, sponsorships, and advocacy to support female athletes and influence policy change back home.
“Let this victory be a wake-up call. Let it motivate us to demand better treatment and support for our athletes. If they can bring us pride and unity, the least we can do is empower them,” Nwobi said.
Nwobi also extended congratulations to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, who finished fourth in the tournament and were awarded the Fair Play Trophy.
“We salute Banyana Banyana for their discipline and sportsmanship. Despite not reaching the final, they played quality football and upheld the spirit of the game,” Nwobi said.
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