The leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), in partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has constituted a seven-member Welfare Committee to oversee the well-being of the Super Falcons as they prepare to defend their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco.
The committee was inaugurated following a meeting between the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, and the General Secretary of the NFF, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, in Abuja.
NFF Executive Board member Aisha Falode will chair the committee, while Ruth David will serve as secretary.
Other members include Rt. Hon. Margaret Icheen, Babagana Kalli, Emeka Iyama, Aderonke Tinuoye and Tobechukwu Oluchi.
Speaking after the meeting, Olopade said the Federal Government was determined to ensure the Super Falcons focus solely on football without any distractions during the tournament.
«”The Super Falcons’ welfare is non-negotiable. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, are personally committed to ensuring the team successfully defends its WAFCON title in Morocco. That is why this committee has been established to work alongside the NFF and guarantee a seamless campaign for the team,” Olopade said.»
The NSC Director General stressed that player welfare remains one of the most important ingredients for success at any major competition.
«”Welfare is a key part of every successful team. With this committee in place, the players can be assured that both the NSC and the NFF are fully committed to their well-being throughout the tournament,” he added.»
Also speaking, NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi described the initiative as a landmark moment for women’s football in Nigeria, noting that it is the first time such a committee has been established for the senior women’s national team ahead of a major championship.
«”This is another history-making step by the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation. It reflects the importance being attached to women’s football and will further accelerate the growth of the women’s game in Nigeria,” Sanusi said.»
He explained that the committee’s role is to complement the work already being done by the NFF rather than interfere with the team’s preparations.
«”The committee is not going to Morocco to take over anyone’s responsibilities. Its assignment is to ensure we have a smooth and successful campaign throughout the tournament,” he added.»
The Super Falcons will head to Morocco seeking to extend their record as Africa’s most successful women’s national team, with the newly inaugurated Welfare Committee expected to play a key role in ensuring the players enjoy a distraction-free title defence.
