By Ameh Gabriel
The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has lauded the Super Falcons following their hard-fought 1–0 victory over Botswana in the ongoing 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), a win that secures Nigeria’s place in the quarterfinals of the prestigious continental competition.
In a statement issued on Friday, July 11, 2025, by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jonathan Eze, the Minister praised the Super Falcons for representing the strength, resilience, and excellence of Nigerian women on the global stage.
“The Super Falcons are more than athletes they are warrior queens in boots: graceful, determined, and unshaken,” she declared.
Describing the team’s triumph as symbolic, the Minister said it is not only a sporting achievement but also a bold statement about the limitless potential of Nigerian women.
“This victory is a reaffirmation of the power and potential of Nigerian women. It signals the rise of a new era Women O’Clock where women’s contributions are vital to shaping Nigeria’s future,” she stated.
A win for women, a win for the nation
The Minister connected the Falcons’ performance to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which she said promotes inclusion, empowerment, and opportunity—especially for women and girls. She also commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, for her continued support of women and children through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which leverages sports and social programs for national development.
“The Super Falcons are a symbol of courage and possibility,” the Minister said. “They carry the hopes of a generation and reflect the strength and unity of our country. Women and families across Nigeria are behind them.”
Championing women’s representation
The Minister further highlighted the importance of the Falcons’ achievement in the context of the ongoing campaign for the Special Seats Bill, which seeks greater female representation in Nigeria’s legislature.
“Just as these incredible athletes have earned their place through talent and tenacity, Nigerian women deserve opportunities to lead and shape our democracy,” she emphasized.
She described the Falcons’ victory as a live demonstration of the value of representation, adding that their performance shows what’s possible when women are empowered to thrive.
The unifying power of sport
Beyond the pitch, the Minister noted that victories like this strengthen national cohesion and family bonds, key pillars of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.
“When our girls win, the whole nation celebrates—families bond, communities unite, and pride surges across the land. This is the transformative power of sport.”
A call to keep flying
Concluding her remarks, the Minister urged the team to remain focused and inspired as they progress in the tournament.
“You are not just winning games—you are rewriting narratives and building a legacy. Fly on, Super Falcons—fearless and free. In every goal, we see a nation’s pride. With you, we rise.”
