Former Super Falcons players have called on the Federal Government to urgently redeem outstanding promises made to Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, warning that continued delays could affect the players’ morale as they prepare for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The appeal comes at a crucial time as the Super Falcons intensify preparations for the continental championship, where they will be seeking to extend their record as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.
Members of the United Ex Super Falcons Worldwide made the appeal during their recent gathering in Chicago, United States, stressing that rewarding athletes for their sacrifices and achievements is essential to sustaining excellence in Nigerian sports.
Leading the call was former Super Falcons striker Patience Avre, who expressed concern over the government’s failure to fulfil several promises reportedly made to the players after their previous international achievements.
According to Avre, many members of the current squad remain hopeful that the pledges, including financial rewards, land allocations and other incentives, will eventually be honoured.
She explained that while the players have remained focused on representing Nigeria with pride, unresolved welfare issues continue to generate concern behind the scenes.
Avre noted that many active players are reluctant to publicly discuss the matter because they do not want distractions ahead of an important tournament or actions that could be interpreted negatively.
She said former internationals have therefore decided to speak on behalf of the players, believing it is their responsibility to protect the interests of those currently wearing the national colours.
The former striker stressed that the appeal should not be viewed as criticism of the government but as a reminder that promises made to national heroes should always be fulfilled.
She argued that recognising athletes for their dedication sends a powerful message that Nigeria values those who sacrifice to bring honour to the country on the international stage.
According to her, proper welfare remains one of the strongest sources of motivation for elite athletes, especially those competing at the highest level.
She also reflected on the experiences of many retired Super Falcons players who, despite contributing significantly to Nigerian football, have struggled after leaving the game.
Avre lamented that several former internationals have faced financial hardship, health challenges and limited support after retirement, despite years of representing the country with distinction.
She said many of those pioneers laid the foundation for Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football but have not received the level of appreciation they deserve.
The former international urged the Federal Government to create lasting support systems that will benefit both current and retired athletes.
She also appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu to ensure that the outstanding promises are redeemed as quickly as possible.
According to her, fulfilling those commitments before the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations would provide an important psychological boost to the players as they prepare to defend Nigeria’s reputation on the continent.
The Super Falcons remain the most decorated team in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having won the title a record ten times.
The team will once again enter the competition among the favourites, with expectations from millions of Nigerian supporters remaining extremely high.
The Nigeria Football Federation has continued to strengthen preparations through training camps and friendly matches, with the technical crew focused on building a squad capable of reclaiming continental glory.
Sports analysts believe that while technical preparation and tactical discipline are essential, player welfare is equally important in achieving success at major tournaments.
Timely payment of bonuses, recognition of achievements and fulfilment of official promises often contribute to creating a positive atmosphere within national teams.
The National Sports Commission had earlier explained that the delay in presenting some of the rewards was linked to scheduling and administrative processes surrounding the team’s preparations.
Officials have maintained that the commitments remain valid and will be fulfilled at the appropriate time.
Recent developments involving Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, have strengthened hopes among football stakeholders.
Following their historic achievements, members of the basketball team reportedly received the financial rewards and housing incentives previously promised by the government.
Many observers believe extending similar recognition to the Super Falcons would further demonstrate the country’s commitment to supporting female athletes across different sports.
For decades, the Super Falcons have served as ambassadors of Nigerian football, inspiring generations of young girls through their remarkable achievements at continental and global tournaments.
Their consistency has earned Nigeria international respect and established the country as a powerhouse in African women’s football.
As preparations for WAFCON 2026 continue, former players insist that honouring outstanding promises is not merely about financial rewards.
They believe it is about recognising commitment, rewarding excellence and giving the current generation of players the confidence and motivation to continue making Nigeria proud.
With the countdown to the tournament already underway, stakeholders across the football community will be hoping that all outstanding welfare issues are resolved, allowing the Super Falcons to focus entirely on their quest for another historic continental triumph.
