In a significant move to bolster team spirit, the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has received a substantial package of rewards from the federal government just before their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign kicks off.
Promises Fulfilled in Morocco
On Monday night in Fes, Morocco, players from the squad that finished as runners-up in the 2023 AFCON were formally presented with title documents for houses, land allocations, and certificates of national honours. This ceremony comes nearly two years after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu first made the pledge to the team.
The initial promise was made during a reception honouring the Super Eagles after their narrow 2–1 defeat to hosts Ivory Coast in the final of the 2023 tournament held in Abidjan.
Details of the Presidential Gesture
The presentation was led by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko. He was accompanied by top government and football officials, including NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, members of the National Assembly sports committees, and representatives from Nigeria’s High Commission in Morocco.
According to an official NSC statement, the rewards package for each player included:
- Housing allocations in either Abuja or Lagos.
- Land grants in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
- Their respective national honours certificates.
Officials stated that the government deliberately fast-tracked the process to ensure the rewards were delivered before the start of the 2025 AFCON tournament, viewing it as a timely show of support.
Special Recognition for Standout Players
While all members of the 2023 AFCON squad received the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) award, two players were given higher honours. Ahmed Musa and Victor Osimhen were upgraded to Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), having previously received the MON.
In a special category, former captain William Troost-Ekong, who was named Player of the Tournament in 2023, was awarded the prestigious Member of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Players present to receive their documents at the team hotel in Morocco included Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, Stanley Nwabali, Zaidu Sanusi, Frank Onyeka, Francis Uzoho, and Paul Onuachu.
A Morale Boost for the Tanzania Clash
The fulfilment of this long-awaited pledge is expected to provide a significant morale boost for the Super Eagles as they begin their quest for a fourth continental title. Nigeria will kick off their AFCON 2025 campaign in Group C against Tanzania on Tuesday, December 23. Their group also includes Tunisia and Uganda.
This gesture of appreciation from the state is seen as a powerful motivator, aligning with President Tinubu’s stated commitment to rewarding excellence and dedicated national service. The team now heads into their opening match with not only the nation's hopes but also tangible recognition of their past efforts riding on their shoulders.
