Gov. Otti Celebrates Abia-Born Super Falcons After Historic WAFCON Triumph

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has hosted Super Falcons players of Abia origin who were part of Nigeria’s victorious squad at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. The Falcons defeated host nation Morocco in Rabat to claim the title, extending Nigeria’s record to a 10th continental crown.

The players received by the governor were Miracle Useni Ofem of Abia Angels Football Club, Christy Ucheibe of Benfica FC, Portugal—represented by her father—and Esther Okoronkwo of AFC Toronto, Canada. Governor Otti congratulated the players for their outstanding performance, describing their success as a source of pride to Abia State and the nation.

According to the governor, the state had planned to host the players earlier, but scheduling challenges prevented the reception at the time. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to celebrating excellence, noting that recognizing achievers inspires others to strive for greater success. Governor Otti assured the players of continued recognition and support as long as they keep excelling.

He further disclosed that a special reward package would be presented to the champions through the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development. The commissioner, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, praised the governor for sustained investment in sports and youth development, thanking him for honouring the Abia-born players who contributed to Nigeria’s WAFCON victory.

Also speaking, Chairman of Abia Angels FC, Mr. Johnson Nwosu, commended the governor for transforming sports in the state, noting that Abia Angels have grown into one of the elite women’s football teams in the country. Responding on behalf of the players, Miracle Useni expressed gratitude to the governor, describing the reception as a great honour and appreciating the state government’s support.

The event was attended by top government officials, including the acting National Secretary of the Labour Party, Senator Darlington Nwokocha; Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; commissioners, and other senior aides.