Minister Utsev Honours Super Falcons Star Francisca Ordega For Wafcon Victory

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, honoured Super Falcons forward Francisca Ordega on Friday, August 1, 2025, in recognition of her significant contribution to Nigeria’s historic triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Ordega, a proud daughter of Benue State, was part of the team that secured Nigeria’s record 10th WAFCON title, a victory that has further solidified the Super Falcons’ dominance in African women’s football.

During the visit at the Minister’s office in Abuja, where Ordega was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, Professor Utsev praised the team’s exceptional performance.

He attributed their success to qualities such as hard work, dedication, and teamwork. The minister also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Super Falcons, including the national honours conferred on the players and the generous reward packages announced in recognition of their achievement.

“I am particularly proud that a daughter of Benue is among the champions who made Nigeria proud. As a Ministry, we are delighted to celebrate her success and will continue to encourage young people in Benue to excel in their chosen careers,” Utsev remarked.

In response, Francisca Ordega expressed heartfelt gratitude to the minister, describing him as “a brother and uncle.”

She also thanked the people of Benue, President Tinubu, and Nigerians for their continuous support throughout the tournament. Ordega further urged the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation to invest more in sports development within Benue State to help discover and nurture new talents for the future.

This recognition highlights the importance of supporting Nigerian athletes and encouraging the growth of sports at the grassroots level across the country.