Enugu Governor Joins Nationwide Celebration After Historic Comeback Victory Over Morocco
Enugu, Nigeria – July 27, 2025 – Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating the Super Falcons of Nigeria after their thrilling comeback victory over Morocco to clinch the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.
The Governor, in a heartfelt message shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @PNMbah, praised the team for exemplifying the indomitable Nigerian spirit. He commended the players not only for their talent but also for their resilience and unity, which he said reflect the greater possibilities Nigerians can achieve through collective purpose.
From Two Goals Down to African Champions
The Super Falcons captured their 10th WAFCON title on Saturday night in Rabat, Morocco, after overturning a 2-0 first-half deficit to defeat the host nation 3-2 in one of the most remarkable comebacks in the tournament’s history.
Morocco took early control of the match, scoring two goals within the first 24 minutes and leaving the Nigerian side rattled before a hostile home crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
However, Nigeria’s head coach, Justine Madugu, restructured the team in the second half, introducing game-changing substitutes Omorinsola Babajide and Jennifer Echegini. The tactical switch proved decisive. The Falcons roared back into the match with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, teenage sensation Folashade Ijamilusi, and Echegini—whose 81st-minute strike sealed a famous win for Nigeria.
“A Symbol of Nigerian Strength and Unity” — Gov. Mbah
Reacting to the team’s performance, Governor Peter Mbah hailed the Super Falcons’ courage and determination in overcoming adversity. He noted that the win was not just a sporting achievement, but a powerful message about what Nigerians can accomplish with unity and belief.
“Congratulations, Super Falcons, on your well-deserved WAFCON 2025 triumph,” Mbah wrote.
“Coming from two goals down to beat the Moroccans to the trophy underscores the resilience and invincibility of the Nigerian spirit and what we can achieve as a people by working together in oneness of mind. We are super proud of you.”
The governor further praised the athletes for lifting the nation’s mood and placing Nigeria once again at the pinnacle of African women’s football. “Again, congratulations, girls, and keep flying higher,” he added.
Mbah’s Message Resonates Across the Nation
The governor’s message resonated with many Nigerians on social media, as users flooded his post with likes, comments, and shares, appreciating his support for women’s sports and the symbolic significance of the victory.
Political analysts have also noted that Mbah’s statement reflects a growing recognition among Nigerian leaders of the power of sports to foster national unity and pride.
“This is more than football,” said sports analyst Chika Nwankwo in a televised reaction. “When you see a governor like Peter Mbah speak about the ‘Nigerian spirit,’ he’s tapping into a much larger narrative about resilience in the face of challenge—something millions of Nigerians can relate to right now.”
Nigeria’s Legacy in African Women’s Football
The Super Falcons’ 2025 victory adds to their storied legacy as Africa’s most successful women’s football team. With 12 WAFCON titles now to their name, Nigeria continues to set the gold standard on the continent.
The team’s journey through this year’s tournament was anything but easy. They faced stiff competition from top contenders like South Africa, Ghana, and Zambia. But it was in the final against Morocco that their true character shone through.
Esther Okoronkwo, who started the second-half rally, credited the team’s unity for their success. “We never gave up. We believed in each other, and we knew we had what it takes to win,” she said.
Folashade Ijamilusi, whose equalizer sent the Nigerian fans into a frenzy, said scoring in a final was “a dream come true.” Meanwhile, match-winner Jennifer Echegini was named Player of the Match and praised the coaching staff for believing in her at a critical point.
Super Falcons Inspire a New Generation
Governor Mbah’s praise also underscores the growing importance of women’s sports in Nigeria. His remarks come at a time when increased investment, attention, and public support are being demanded for female athletes across the country.
“This team has inspired a new generation of girls across Nigeria,” said Enugu-based coach Ngozi Okonkwo. “They’ve shown that no matter where you come from or what the odds are, you can rise, you can lead, and you can win.”
Calls are now growing for increased funding, better facilities, and stronger league systems to support the pipeline of female football talent in Nigeria—an issue leaders like Mbah may be called to take up in the months ahead.
Looking Forward: World Cup and Beyond
With the 2025 WAFCON title secured, attention now shifts to the upcoming qualifiers for the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games. Head coach Justine Madugu emphasized in a post-match interview that the victory is just the beginning.
“This is a statement to the world. Nigeria is not just back—we’re ready to take on the best globally,” Madugu said.
He also thanked the Nigerian Football Federation, technical team, and the entire country for standing behind the Super Falcons throughout the campaign.
National Pride Rekindled
As celebrations continued across cities in Nigeria—from Lagos to Enugu, Abuja to Kano—Governor Peter Mbah’s message captured the sentiment of a nation renewed with pride and optimism.
In the face of economic challenges and political tensions, the Super Falcons have offered Nigerians something priceless: belief. Belief in their country, in their collective strength, and in the endless possibilities that unity can bring.
Indeed, as Governor Mbah put it best: “We are super proud of you. Keep flying higher.”
Africa Live News will continue to bring you exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes stories from the Super Falcons’ camp as they prepare for their next global journey.
