Promises Made, Promises Pending
Weeks after their historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) victory, the Super Falcons are still waiting for the rewards pledged by the Federal Government.
President Bola Tinubu had announced that each player would receive $100,000 in cash, a three-bedroom flat under the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme, and the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). The Nigeria Governors’ Forum also promised ₦10 million per player as part of the celebration.
But in a recent interview, team captain Rasheedat Ajibade revealed that none of these pledges have been fulfilled.
Ajibade Speaks Out
In a sit-down with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Ajibade was asked about the much-publicised $100,000 reward. Her response was blunt:
“We have not received our money, but hopefully, it would be paid. They have not paid—none of the promises have been fulfilled.”
Her statement has sparked renewed conversations about Nigeria’s track record of making grand announcements to athletes without prompt delivery.
Celebration vs. Reality
The promises were made in late July at a Presidential Villa reception for the victorious Falcons. The event was widely covered, with images of the team being honoured and praised for their performance in Morocco.
However, as of August 14, 2025, the situation remains unchanged:
$100,000 per player – Not delivered
Three-bedroom flats – Not delivered
OON national honours – Announced, unclear if fully conferred
₦10 million from Governors’ Forum – Not delivered
The Bigger Picture
This delay comes against the backdrop of repeated issues in Nigerian sports administration—where athletes often face long waits for bonuses, allowances, and official rewards despite high-profile public promises.
For a team that has brought home 10 continental titles, the gap between public praise and actual reward is becoming a sore point.
