Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has lavished a whopping ₦70 million on seven proud daughters of the state who played vital roles in Nigeria’s victorious campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The reception, held at the Government House in Owerri, was organized to celebrate and honour these exceptional athletes who hoisted the Nigerian flag high and played pivotal roles in securing the Super Falcons’ dramatic 3-2 triumph over host nation Morocco in the tournament’s final.
Each of the six players of Imo origin—Chiamaka Nnadozie, Jennifer Echegini, Osinachi Ohale, Oluchi Oluehi, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Michelle Alozie—received ₦10 million as a token of the state’s appreciation for their outstanding performance and patriotism.
In addition to the players, Assistant Coach Ann Chiejine, another illustrious daughter of Imo, was also given ₦10 million by the governor in acknowledgment of her contribution to the team’s success both on and off the field.
Governor Uzodinma, during the event, praised the athletes for their dedication, hard work, and for bringing honour not only to Imo State but to the entire nation. “You have proven that Imo State breeds excellence. This reward is not just about money. It’s our way of saying thank you for the sacrifices, the sweat, and the national pride you’ve brought home,” he stated.
The governor encouraged the young women to continue being role models and to inspire the next generation of athletes in the state. He also hinted at plans to invest further in sports development across Imo, citing the recent WAFCON success as a wake-up call for state governments to take women’s football more seriously.
This latest gesture comes on the heels of an earlier national reward from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who had earlier gifted every Super Falcons player \$100,000, a fully furnished three-bedroom home, and conferred upon them the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). The President described their victory as “a moment of national unity, pride, and hope.”
The combined state and national recognitions have ignited excitement across the country, especially in Imo State, where the presence of multiple stars in the championship-winning team has been hailed as a testament to the state’s rich sporting potential.
The Super Falcons’ win over Morocco has not only made headlines for its thrilling finish but has also opened fresh conversations around the development of women’s football in Africa, equal pay, and recognition for female athletes.
With this reward package, Governor Uzodinma joins a growing list of Nigerian leaders showing public support for the nation’s athletes beyond the usual lip service, setting an example that other states may now feel pressured to follow.
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