General News of Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Source: www.dailytrust.com

First Lady: How First Lady nearly abandoned my dinner - Tinubu

President Tinubu and First Lady with Super Falcons stars President Tinubu and First Lady with Super Falcons stars

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has narrated how the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu nearly abandoned his dinner on Saturday because of the match between Nigeria and Morocco.

After going down 2-0, in the first half, the Super Falcons fought back to win the match 3-2.

Speaking when he hosted the victorious team at the Presidential Villa on Monday, the President recounted the emotional moments of the final match, noting how the team’s performance lifted the nation’s spirits and united Nigerians from all walks of life.

“Your victory represents more than a sporting accomplishment. It is a triumph of courage, determination, discipline, and consistency.”

“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want to have high blood pressure. But people came in and turned my TV on that channel. When it was 2-0, I got very offended and restless. But I was still watching with the spirit of resilience, determination, and courage. And after that penalty, my strength was lifted, and I believe that of the nation was lifted too.

“But you almost made me angrier because your mother (the First Lady) was in the kitchen, nearly abandoning my dinner.

”She doesn’t watch the game except when the girls are playing. And at the end of the final whistle, it was joy all over the country,” he said.

The President assured the team of his administration’s continued support and commitment to sports development, pledging that the government would invest further in women’s football and youth talent development across the country.

“Your story is a story of hope. And in this era of Renewed Hope, we celebrate you not just as champions of Africa, but as champions of the Nigerian dream.”

Also speaking the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, described the Super Falcons as role models and shining examples of courage and excellence.

She congratulated the team for their exceptional performance and unwavering spirit, describing their journey as “a testament to resilience, teamwork, and determination.

“You played with passion, confidence, and an unshakeable belief in yourselves—that it is not over until it is over.

“The zeal you displayed on the pitch was nothing short of inspirational. You never wavered and reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”

The First Lady prayed for the team’s continued success and shared an earlier conversation with President Tinubu about the team’s bright future as world champions.

“I told Mr. President this morning that you are going on to win the World Cup, and he thought I was too ambitious. But Ajibade, the team captain, just seconded that, and that is possible,” he said.

Super Falcons Captain Rasheedat Ajibade said the victory was for the team and for every Nigerian girl who dreams of achieving greatness.

“Today, I stand before you not just as the captain of the Super Falcons, but as a proud daughter of Nigeria, carrying the dreams, resilience, and spirit of our great nation,” she said.

“On behalf of my teammates, coaches, and technical staff, I express our heartfelt gratitude for this warm reception and the unwavering belief you have shown in us.”

Emphasising the significance of their 10th WAFCON title, the team captain said:

“This victory is not just a trophy. It is a testament to the unyielding spirit of Nigeria. It is a celebration of every young girl in our villages, towns, and cities who dares to dream… This 10th title is for you, Mr. President, for Nigerians, for Super Falcons, and for every young child who believes and dreams to be on this stage someday.”

Ajibade called for continued support from the government and stakeholders to elevate Nigeria’s global standing in women’s football.