By Nkechi Eze
The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has expressed heartfelt pride and excitement following the Super Falcons’ crucial 1–0 triumph over Botswana in the ongoing 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), a win that has secured Nigeria’s place in the tournament’s quarterfinals.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jonathan Eze, the Minister praised the Nigerian women’s national football team not just for their skill on the pitch but for their symbolic role as champions of female resilience and national unity.
Describing the players as “warrior queens in boots, graceful, determined, and unshaken,” Hajiya Imaan applauded the Super Falcons for a performance that, in her words, “reaffirms the limitless potential of Nigerian women.” She emphasized that the victory transcends sports, representing a broader narrative of strength, excellence, and empowerment for women across Nigeria.
“This victory is not only a sporting feat; it is a bold reaffirmation of the limitless potential of Nigerian women. It symbolizes the rising tide of female empowerment in our country,” the Minister stated.
She further noted that the win comes at what she called a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s sociopolitical evolution, describing the current era as “Women O’Clock” a time in which the contributions of women are central to shaping the future of the nation.
Linking the Falcons’ success to the broader national agenda, the Minister highlighted the Renewed Hope vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as a policy framework fostering inclusiveness and empowerment for all Nigerians, especially women and girls. She also commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, for her steadfast commitment to women and children through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which promotes national transformation through sports and social development.
“The Super Falcons are symbols of possibility and courage,” Hajiya Imaan added. “They carry the hopes of a generation and embody the unity and strength of our nation. Nigerian women, girls, and families across the country are behind them, celebrating every stride.”
The Minister also drew attention to the national implications of the team’s victory in light of the ongoing push for the Special Seats Bill, which advocates for greater female representation in the National Assembly. According to her, the Falcons’ success is a powerful demonstration of what Nigerian women can achieve when given the opportunity.
“Just as these athletes have earned their place through talent and tenacity, so too must Nigerian women be given the opportunity to lead and contribute at all levels,” she said.
Hajiya Imaan emphasized the vital role of sports in promoting unity, family values, and national pride core pillars of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs. She remarked that every victory by the Super Falcons not only unites communities but also strengthens family bonds and ignites a shared sense of national pride.
“When our girls win, the whole nation celebrates families bond, communities unite, and a shared sense of pride is born. This is the transformative power of sport,” she noted.
As the team prepares for the next stage of the tournament, the Minister urged them to continue their inspiring campaign, stating: “You are not just winning matches; you are changing 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.”
