TY BURATAI emerges as the Champions of Seventh edition of ZAMAN LAFIYA COMPETITION in Maiduguri.

TY BURATAI Football Academy defeated FC Crack at the finals of the Seventh edition of Zaman Lafiya competition in Maiduguri on Sunday 3 August 2025.

In his relentless efforts in the restoration of peace and development as well as support toward youths development and engagement including after his service as the Chief of Army Staff, Ambassador General TY BURATAI (rtd) continues his support and youths engagement in Borno state

The most entertaining youths and historic football competition final match was played in Maiduguri between two powerful football Academy’s in the state, TY BURATAI football Academy slog it out against FC Crack Football Academy was played peacefully.

The match, which was played at the El-Kanemi Warriors Sport Centre Maiduguri, witnessed the turnout of hundreds of spectators as well as security agencies in the state.

Following a display of talents and skills from both teams with missing several scoring chances, the match ended in a goalless draw.

Meanwhile, it goes straight into the penalty shootout, TY BURATAI Academy won in a narrow score line after a player from FC Crack missed the first opportunity for them to win the trophy.

TY BURATAI Academy capitalizes on the opportunity and maintains the lead by seven goals to eight in favour of Buratai Academy.

On his remark after the final whistle, Alhaji Ibrahim Buratai President FC Buratai Academy congrats the team in putting efforts of winning tropy and call on youths to show love and togetherness among themselves.

Also adding that it’s a form of non kinetic war by engaging youths in the state so as to do away with all forms of social vices as well as embrace peace, discipline, and love for each other.

It could be recalled that Ambassador General TY BURATAI since his assumption into the office as the Chief of Army Staff has been applying various ways, techniques, and modalities of youth engagement as well as youths development in Borno state and the north east at large.

Highlight of the final match was a presentation of a set of Jersey to each and all the participated clubs and gifts to individuals that distinguish themselves, among other.

Dignitaries at the event include all football stakeholders in the state including Nigerian Football Federation NFF board member Alhaji Babagana Kalli Kachallah Ozogler, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed OC Crack Borno state, Alhaji Ibrahim Mainu Mustapha Chairman Elkanemi Warriors Football Club as well as Kabiru Dogo Technical Director of Elkanemi Warriors Football Club of Maiduguri.

WAFCON 2025: Nigerians in South Africa Hail Super Falcons.

RABAT, MOROCCO ~ In what will be remembered as one of the most thrilling finals in the history of women’s football on the African continent, Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, the Super Falcons pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses 3-2 and lift their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.

Trailing by two goals in the first half and facing a roaring home crowd in Rabat, the Falcons embodied resilience, spirit and determination; qualities that have long defined Nigerian excellence in sport. Their triumphant feat, dubbed “Mission X” by fans and commentators, has sparked jubilation across Nigeria and among diaspora communities worldwide.

In South Africa, members of the Nigerian community under the auspices of the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), joined the global celebration by issuing a congratulatory message to the team, commending their strength of character and the unyielding Nigerian spirit they displayed.

“The Super Falcons were composed, focused and determined to win the game. It’s not easy for a team to come from two goals down and win, especially against a host nation,” said Smart Nwobi, a lawyer and President of NUSA, in an official statement issued in Johannesburg on Sunday 27th of July.

The July 25 final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was a clash of titans. Morocco, as host nation and finalists from the previous edition, were seen as favorites on home turf. They struck early with two goals that put the Falcons on the back foot and raised questions about whether Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football had finally met its match; As always, the Super Falcons responded not with fear, but with fury.

Led by star forward Asisat Oshoala, midfield dynamo Christy Ucheibe and the ever-reliable Onome Ebi, the Nigerian side gradually clawed their way back into the game. Uchenna Kanu’s volley opened the comeback before Rasheedat Ajibade netted the equalizer. Substitute Ifeoma Onumonu later buried the winner, sending the entire stadium into stunned silence, except for a pocket of proud Nigerian supporters.

This was more than a football match. It was a demonstration of tenacity, national pride and the never-say-die attitude that has become synonymous with the Nigerian identity.

In cities like Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town, members of the Nigerian community gathered in pubs, viewing centers and homes to watch the final. Celebrations erupted after the final whistle, with fans waving green-white-green flags, singing old football chants and even performing traditional dances in open spaces.

For many, this wasn’t just a football victory, it was a unifying moment that rekindled national pride in a time of widespread economic and political challenges back home.

“We join Nigerians across the world to congratulate the Super Falcons for this historic feat,” NUSA President Smart Nwobi added. “Winning the 10th title proves that Nigeria remains the gold standard in African women’s football.”

Nwobi urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) not to rest on its laurels, emphasizing that preparation for title defense should begin immediately.

“The standard of women’s football in Africa has improved significantly. Countries like Morocco, Zambia and South Africa are investing heavily. This implies that opposition will be stronger in future tournaments,” he warned.

Interestingly, the NUSA President also extended congratulations to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, who finished fourth in the tournament and were awarded the Fair Play Trophy.

“We salute Banyana Banyana for their discipline and sportsmanship. Despite not reaching the final, they played quality football and upheld the spirit of the game,” Nwobi noted.

Banyana Banyana have consistently proven themselves as Nigeria’s fiercest rivals in recent years, winning the 2022 edition of WAFCON and challenging Nigeria’s supremacy in women’s football.

Nigeria’s 2025 WAFCON victory has come at a crucial time. Amid soaring inflation, insecurity, youth unemployment and social unrest, this moment of national triumph offered a rare occasion for collective joy. The Super Falcons reminded Nigerians that even when the odds seem impossible, victory is always within reach. This tournament was also a showcase of Nigeria’s depth of talent. The Falcons fielded a younger team, integrating new talents such as Esther Okoronkwo, Rofiat Imran and Deborah Abiodun, who brought pace and freshness to the squad. Their performance demonstrated that the next generation is ready to carry the legacy forward. Nigeria’s performance shows what can be achieved with unity and purpose.

“This victory is symbolic. It tells us that when we fight together as a team and believe in our strength, we can overcome any odds. That’s a lesson the whole nation must learn, not just in football but in governance, industry, and civic life,” Nwobi added.

While fans celebrate, football stakeholders must begin the work of consolidating this achievement. There is a clear need for improved investment in women’s football development both at grassroots and professional levels. The Falcons’ consistent success masks the systemic neglect they face. From poor training facilities and inadequate pay to travel and accommodation issues, the players have continually pushed forward in spite of these challenges. Nigeria owes them more. The diaspora community, particularly influential groups like NUSA, has a key role to play. Through partnerships, sponsorships and advocacy, they can support female athletes and influence policy change back home.

“Let this victory be a wake-up call. Let it motivate us to demand better treatment and support for our athletes. If they can bring us pride and unity, the least we can do is empower them,” Nwobi concluded.

With this 10th title, the Super Falcons have once again asserted Nigeria’s position as Africa’s football powerhouse. But beyond the medals and trophies, they have given a nation (and its scattered sons and daughters) a reason to believe again. They have reminded us of who we are: a people that rise from adversity, defy the odds, and shine when it matters most.

From Rabat to Lagos, from Abuja to Johannesburg, one message rings clear: Nigeria is still the giant of Africa and our women just proved it again.

Super Falcons🇳🇬 Complete Mission X in Grand Style: A Celebration of Champions.

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com

In the grand finale of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Rabat, Morocco, the Super Falcons of Nigeria delivered a stunning footballing masterpiece to reclaim their rightful place as queens of African football. Under the bold mission statement “Mission X,” they stormed the tournament with purpose, poise and power; culminating in a historic 10th continental crown.

This was more than just a championship run; it was a story of redemption, legacy and an unbreakable bond between a team and their nation. From group stage battles to a pulsating final comeback, the Nigerian players showed grit, class and character. They didn’t just win WAFCON 2025; they conquered it.

A Confident Start: Group Stage Dominance. Drawn into Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana, Nigeria made their intentions clear early on. The Falcons opened with a commanding 3–0 win over Tunisia, powered by the midfield dominance of Rasheedat Ajibade and the ever-reliable command of Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal.

A narrow victory over Botswana and a goalless draw against Algeria followed, enough to top the group unbeaten. Through these early matches, Nigeria displayed their trademark defensive solidity, orchestrated by veterans like Osinachi Ohale and Michelle Alozie, while young stars like Esther Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi offered glimpses of their attacking firepower. It was clear: “Mission X” had liftoff.

Quarterfinal Statement: Ruthless Against Zambia. The Super Falcons truly found their rhythm in the quarterfinal against Zambia, demolishing the Copper Queens 5–0 in a performance dripping with confidence and class. Esther Okoronkwo began to emerge as the tournament’s creative heartbeat; dropping deep to control possession, threading killer passes and keeping defenders guessing. Up front, Uchenna Kanu and Ajibade added venom, while Desire Oparanozie led like a general from midfield marshalling the troops, calming the tempo and linking play like a true professional. At the back, Nnadozie continued her faultless run, commanding her box like a seasoned gladiator.

The Semi-Final Showdown: Overcoming South Africa. A heavyweight clash against defending champions; South Africa awaited in the semi-final is a test of fire and character. Nigeria absorbed early pressure before Ajibade equalized from the penalty spot with her signature composure. Then came the unforgettable: Michelle Alozie, the tireless right-back, unleashed a stunning last-minute free kick, burying the ball into the top corner to seal a 2–1 victory and send Nigeria into the final with renewed belief. It was POETIC. It was POWERFUL and was PERSONAL.

The Final Against Morocco: From Despair to Destiny. In front of a raucous Moroccan home crowd in Rabat, the Super Falcons faced the tournament hosts and their 2022 semi-final conquerors. Revenge was on the line, the first half was a nightmare; Morocco struck twice within the opening 25 minutes, taking a 2–0 lead and sending shockwaves through the Nigerian camp. Many teams would have collapsed; no not this one. Not with the Super Falcons’ fighting DNA. In the second half, the comeback began; spearheaded by none other than Esther Okoronkwo. In the 64th minute, she coolly converted a penalty to bring Nigeria back into the contest. Just seven minutes later, she set up Ijamilusi, who rifled home the equalizer with surgical precision.Then, with the clock ticking down in the 88th minute, substitute Jennifer Echegini latched onto another Okoronkwo delivery and slotted the winner into the Moroccan net. Nigeria 3, Morocco 2. Mission X accomplished.

Player Praise: The Falcons Who Flew Highest. This title belonged to every member of the squad, but several players etched their names into footballing folklore with unforgettable performances:

Chiamaka Nnadozie: Voted Goalkeeper of the Tournament, she was the impenetrable last line of defence. Her command, reflexes and maturity between the posts are now unmatched in African football.

Rasheedat Ajibade: The CAPTAIN, the CONDUCTOR, the FIGHTER. Her goals, leadership and relentless drive were the emotional spine of the team.

Esther Okoronkwo: The BREAKOUT-STAR and arguably Player of the Tournament, with goal contributions in every knockout match, including a penalty goal and two assists in the final. She made the pitch her canvas.

Folashade Ijamilusi: Calm under pressure, clinical in front of goal and her equalizer in the final was pure instinct and composure.

Jennifer Echegini: The hero off the bench, she delivered the winner when it mattered most. One TOUCH, one MOMENT, one TITLE-WINNING goal.

Osinachi Ohale & Michelle Alozie: Rock-solid defenders who gave everything. Their TENACITY, WORK-RATE and discipline anchored the backline all tournament.

Desire Oparanozie: A midfield marshal, she balanced CREATIVITY with CONTROL and brought stability in tense moments.

This was a team that played for one another. Veterans led with grace; youngsters thrived with hunger; and they all delivered, every time it counted.

A Legacy Reinforced
Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title is not just a record, but a reminder. The Super Falcons remain the undisputed queens of African football. No other team has their history, consistency or fear factor.

They have now reached every single WAFCON final they’ve ever qualified for and won 10 of them. Their dominance is not LUCK; it’s LEGACY. More than that, the class of 2025 proved that this team is not resting on past glories. New heroes are rising, new stories are being written and Nigerian women’s football is entering an exciting new chapter.

Mission X: More Than a Hashtag. What began as a campaign motto (“Mission X”) became a prophecy fulfilled. It inspired belief across the dressing room, the diaspora and the millions watching from home. It unified a team, electrified a nation and silenced doubters. The Falcons did not just win the trophy. They CONQUERED ADVERSITY. They beat the hosts. They came back from 2–0 down in a final on foreign soil, and they did it with BEAUTY, BRAVERY and BRILLIANCE.

Thank You, Super Falcons. From the streets of Lagos to the homes in Warri, from Abuja to the villages in Enugu and Kano; Nigeria rejoiced. You brought us joy, you brought us pride and you reminded us why we never stop believing in the green and white. To the coaching staff, the backroom team and most of all; the 23 warriors who wore the jersey with honour, thank you. You wrote your names in history. You did your country proud.

As the sun sets on WAFCON 2025, one thing is clear: Nigeria’s Super Falcons are far from done. The mission may be complete, but the DYNASTY continues.

By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com