Nigeria's Super Falcons achieved a historic milestone by securing their 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in 2024, overcoming Morocco with a dramatic 3-2 victory in the final. This triumph brought immense national pride and was celebrated widely, with individual players earning significant recognition and accolades for their instrumental roles in the campaign.

Among the key figures were defenders Ashleigh Plumptre and Omorinsola Babajide, both born and raised in the UK but choosing to represent Nigeria internationally. Their dedication not only shaped their careers but also deepened their connection to their Nigerian heritage. Following the team's official reception in Abuja, their fathers were captured in a light-hearted, proud exchange, soaking in the spotlight brought by their daughters' success. Plumptre featured prominently in defense throughout the tournament, while Babajide made a memorable WAFCON debut with a goal and an assist in the group stage win against Tunisia.

The Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, announced substantial rewards for the victorious team. Each player, including Plumptre and Babajide, was promised the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), a cash reward of $100,000 (approximately ₦153 million), and a furnished three-bedroom apartment in the “Renewed Hope” housing estate. The 11 technical crew members were also promised $50,000 each. Furthermore, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) awarded Nigeria's Super Falcons $1,000,000 for their win, doubling the prize money from the previous tournament, and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum pledged an additional ₦10 million in cash to each team member.

However, amidst the celebrations and promises, Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was also the WAFCON 2024 Player of the Tournament, revealed that none of these pledges from the Nigerian government have been fulfilled. Speaking in an interview, Ajibade stated, "We have not received our money. They haven't delivered it. They will pay... All the promises we've been hearing, none have been fulfilled, so people should know, but hopefully soon." She also noted that even their match bonuses were still a "work in progress," highlighting a recurring issue of delayed payments in Nigerian football, reminiscent of John Mikel Obi's experience funding the Nigerian Olympic team in 2016.

Despite the financial uncertainties, individual players continue to make waves in their professional careers. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, whose stellar performances cemented her status as the finest shot-stopper on the continent, was officially welcomed by Brighton & Hove Albion Women. Nnadozie played a pivotal role in the WAFCON victory, keeping four clean sheets and conceding only twice in open play, earning her the Best Goalkeeper award and a spot in the Team of the Tournament. Her achievements also led to a prestigious shortlisting for the Yachine Trophy, recognizing the world's best women's goalkeeper. Her move to Brighton makes her the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play in the English Women's Super League, a significant step in her career.

The Super Falcons' 2024 WAFCON triumph brought national jubilation and showcased the immense talent within Nigerian women's football. While players like Nnadozie embark on new chapters and the proud fathers of Plumptre and Babajide share their joy, the team's captain's revelation casts a shadow over the promised rewards, underscoring a critical need for the government to honor its commitments and support its athletes.