By Prosper Mene
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has publicly expressed frustration over the Federal Government’s failure to fulfill its promise of a $100,000 reward for each player following their triumphant victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
While speaking in an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Ajibade disclosed that the team has not received the pledged cash reward, alongside other promised incentives, including three-bedroom apartments and national honours of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). “We have not received our money, but hopefully, it would be paid. They have not paid, all the promises, we have not received anything,” Ajibade stated.
The Super Falcons secured their record-extending 10th WAFCON title in a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Morocco, with standout performances from players like Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini. The team’s achievement was celebrated at a grand reception hosted by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he praised their “indomitable spirit of resilience, determination, and courage” and announced the rewards.
However, months after the announcement, the promised funds and properties remain undelivered, raising questions about the administration’s priorities and the welfare of Nigerian athletes.
Ajibade, who was named Player of the Tournament, also noted that match bonuses remain unpaid, describing the situation as a “work in progress.” Despite her frustration, she expressed cautious optimism that the government would eventually honor its commitments.
The delay has drawn comparisons to similar unfulfilled promises in Nigerian sports, with public sentiment on across platforms reflecting growing discontent.
The Super Falcons’ situation comes in the wake of similar rewards promised to Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, who also received pledges of $100,000 per player and other incentives following their recent AfroBasket triumph.
The recurrence of such delays has stirred calls for greater transparency and accountability in the management of sports funding in Nigeria.
Ajibade’s comments have heightened demands from fans and stakeholders for the Federal Government to expedite the payments and fulfill its promises to the Super Falcons, who continue to inspire millions across the nation
