Nigerian women’s national football team captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, has declared the Super Falcons’ ambition to go beyond continental dominance and compete among the globe’s finest, following their record 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.
Ajibade made the statement during a commemorative breakfast in Lagos put together by MTN Nigeria, where the telecommunications giant declared a ₦150 million gift to the team in celebration of their milestone victory.
“For us, the Super Falcons of Nigeria past champions of the tenth title and generations to come after us, we are proud of this win, but we are not satisfied,” Ajibade said. “We have to think outside Africa. We have to be global contenders, not local champions.”
The Atletico Madrid star drew the recent WAFCON triumph as a stepping stone to greater heights, in tribute to the footballing legends of the past who laid the foundation for the team’s success. “We acknowledge those who won before us. Now it’s our turn to take things further.”
Ajibade emphasized the need for sustained collaboration with the Nigeria Football Federation, government, and private sector to finance the team’s international push. “We are aware of our responsibilities and the need to keep investing in this team,” she stated.
She also appreciated prominent dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, for their visible support during the tournament. She also appreciated ministers and government officials who rallied behind the team.
Speaking at the event, MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola restated the company’s faith in gender equality, youth empowerment, and national pride.
“We’re not celebrating just a football victory,” Toriola said. “We’re applauding excellence and perseverance. At 2-0 in the final, I figured it was all over. When they scored the third goal, I had a tear in my eye. It was a moment of pure joy.”
Toriola also pointed to MTN’s success at promoting gender inclusion within its own ranks and reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to ongoing support for Nigerian football through its sponsorship of the Nigeria Football Federation.
“You’ve delivered on our investment,” he said. “Your journey has been our journey through every match, every trial and today we are proud to stand with you.”
