Super Falcons forward Francesca Ordega has expressed gratitude to Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, for rewarding her with N50m, a three bedroom in Makurdi, the state capital, and a street to be named after her.
Alia announced the reward at a dinner at the new Banquet Hall of Government House, Makurdi, on Thursday night to celebrate Ordega for being part of the Super Falcons squad that won the 2024 WAFCON title in Morocco last month.
He also awarded N10m to the coach who discovered Ordega in Benue to become a star player.
Ordega took to social media on Sunday to express gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia, and the people of Benue for the reception and the rewards.
She wrote on Facebook: “I write to express my heartfelt gratitude for the honour bestowed upon me by the Benue State Government. Receiving this recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the collective efforts of my family, friends, colleagues and fans who have supported me throughout my journey.
“I am deeply humbled by this acknowledgement and inspired to continue contributing to the growth and development of our beloved state. This honour serves as a reminder of the responsibilities we all share in fostering progress and unity within our community.
“I write to extend my sincere thanks to the governor, the members of the State Executive Council, and everyone involved in this decision. Your belief in my work motivates me to strive for excellence and to give back to the community that has shaped me.
“Thank you once again for this incredible honour. I look forward to continuing to serve and uplift our great state of Benue. Together we shall do great things.”
Similarly, The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, also honoured Ordega for her contribution to Nigeria’s historic triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Ordega made one appearance for the Super Falcons in the last group game of the tournament against Algeria before suffering an injury which denied him further involvement in the latter stages.
The 31-year-old has won the WAFCON title five times with the Super Falcons.
Ordega represented Nigeria at all levels from the U-17, U-20, and the Super Falcons, where she was part of FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments of 2011, 2015 and 2019.
