Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, has defended the rewards given to Nigeria’s Super Falcons following their victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Onanuga addressed critics who claimed the rewards were either excessive or insufficient, comparing them to the ₦150 million grand prize awarded to the winner of the Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) reality show.
Onanuga stated, “When you remember that Multichoice, the organiser of the BBNaija reality show, is offering the winner ₦150 million grand prize, you wonder why some Nigerians are unappreciative of President Tinubu’s rewards to the Super Falcons.” He emphasized that the president’s actions recognized excellence and hard work.
At a recent event at the Presidential Villa, each player and member of the coaching staff received the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), along with cash rewards of the naira equivalent of $100,000 for players and $50,000 for technical crew members. Additionally, Tinubu promised three-bedroom apartments for all team members in the Renewed Hope Housing Estate.
Onanuga’s comments sparked mixed reactions online. Some users questioned the decision to offer rewards in foreign currency, while others praised the president’s recognition of the team. Detractors argued that the rewards were excessive given the country’s economic challenges, while supporters highlighted the importance of acknowledging sports achievements.
The debate reflects ongoing discussions about valuing sports in Nigeria and the appropriateness of governmental recognition in contrast to private sector rewards.
