The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, hosted members of the Nigerian female football team, the Super Falcons, at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja this afternoon.
The Super Falcons crashed out of the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup, being co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, having lost through penalties to the English team, last Monday, August 7.
The First Lady, who held a similar meeting with the victorious Nigeria female basketball team, D’Tigresses, last Monday, has since been encouraging Nigerian female sports personalities by urging them on and holding meetings like this.
She paid glowing tribute to all the players whom she said had represented Nigeria on the global stage, noting that the world took notice of the dexterity of the players.
“Although the final result did not go our way, I am here to remind you that victory is not solely determined by the score on the field. The unbreakable spirit and unity that you demonstrated are true markers of success”
“You have not only represented Nigeria on the global stage but have also become role models for our youth, especially young girls who now see their aspirations mirrored in you”.
“I salute you today and welcome you back home and our goodwill and best wishes go to other players who have gone back to their base. You gave your all, and we stand with you. We are so proud of you”.
In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau thanked the First Lady for the warm reception and assured that the players would continue to give good and qualitative representation to the country.
The captain of the team, Onome Ebi, said the team worked very hard and tirelessly to bring home the coveted FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy.
She promised that the team would continue to press on relentlessly to ensure they make the country very proud on the football field.
The First Lady received the players with the wife of the Vice President Hajiya Nana Shettima and wife of the Senate President Mrs Ekaette Akpabio.
Source: Daily Trust
