The Super Falcons, Nigeria’s national women’s football team, fresh from their triumphant victory at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), were honored with a reception at the Presidential Villa. The event, hosted by President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, celebrated the team’s remarkable achievement in securing their tenth WAFCON title, solidifying Nigeria’s dominance in women’s football on the African continent. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and pride as the players, basking in the glow of their recent success, greeted the First Lady with a resounding chorus of “Na our mama be this o,” a phrase meaning “This is our mother.” This affectionate declaration echoed through the Villa, marking a significant moment of connection between the team and the First Lady.
The celebratory chant, however, carried with it a history of contrasting interpretations. Earlier in the year, the same phrase became the center of a contentious exchange between the First Lady and nursing students in Delta State. During a health outreach event, students challenged the notion of the First Lady as a universal maternal figure, responding to her greeting with “Na your mama be this,” implying a more exclusive and personal interpretation of the term “mother.” This incident sparked debate and highlighted the diverse understandings of familial titles and their application in public contexts. The Super Falcons’ use of the phrase, in stark contrast, served as a deliberate affirmation of unity and respect, transforming a potentially divisive expression into a symbol of shared identity and collective pride.
The First Lady, visibly moved by the team’s warm reception, beamed with smiles as she addressed the gathering. Her words resonated with genuine joy and solidarity, commending the Super Falcons for their exceptional discipline, resilience, and unwavering commitment to representing Nigeria with honor and distinction on the international stage. The reception served as a powerful testament to the unifying power of sports, transcending past controversies and fostering a sense of shared national identity. The First Lady’s presence and supportive words underscored the significance of the Super Falcons’ accomplishment, not just as a sporting victory, but as a source of national pride and inspiration.
The Super Falcons’ victory at the 2025 WAFCON represented a historic milestone, adding another glittering trophy to Nigeria’s already impressive collection. Their previous triumphs in 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2024, coupled with their latest win, solidified their position as the undisputed queens of African women’s football. The thrilling 3-2 victory against Morocco in the final showcased the team’s exceptional talent, determination, and unwavering spirit. The match, a nail-biting affair that kept fans on the edge of their seats, culminated in a triumphant celebration of Nigerian football prowess. The team’s consistent performance over the years has cemented their legacy as true champions, inspiring generations of young female athletes and solidifying Nigeria’s place at the forefront of women’s football in Africa.
The reception at the Presidential Villa served not only as a celebration of the Super Falcons’ remarkable achievement but also as a platform to recognize the increasing importance and visibility of women’s sports in Nigeria. The First Lady’s active involvement in the event underscored the growing recognition of the role of women in sports and the positive impact it has on the nation as a whole. The Super Falcons’ success story serves as a powerful example of the potential of women’s sports to inspire, unite, and empower. Their dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made them role models for young girls across the country, paving the way for a brighter future for women’s sports in Nigeria.
The “Na our mama be this o” chant, once a source of contention, has been reclaimed and transformed into a symbol of unity and celebration. The Super Falcons’ heartfelt expression of affection for the First Lady, coupled with their impressive sporting achievements, created a moment of powerful symbolism, demonstrating the ability of sports to bridge divides and foster a sense of shared identity. The event at the Presidential Villa served as a testament to the unifying power of sports and the important role of women in shaping Nigeria’s future. The Super Falcons, through their talent, dedication, and unwavering spirit, have become more than just a football team; they have become a symbol of national pride, resilience, and the power of unity.
