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Ondo State Governor Aiyedatiwa rewards Super Falcons star, Tosin Demehin, with ₦30 Million and House
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has honoured Nigeria’s senior women’s national team defender, Tosin Demehin, with a ₦30 million cash reward and a house at Sunshine Estate in Oba-Ile, Akure, in recognition of her outstanding performance at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where Nigeria clinched the championship title.
The announcement was made during a civic reception held on Monday in Akure to celebrate Ondo State indigenes who contributed to the Super Falcons’ historic victory in Morocco last month.
Alongside Demehin, Governor Aiyedatiwa also rewarded Mary Akinsola, the team’s media officer, and Mary Oduboku, the team’s secretary, with ₦15 million each, acknowledging their significant roles in the national team’s success.
“This is a proud moment for us. Tosin Demehin has made Ondo State proud on the continental stage. As a token of our appreciation, the state government is awarding her ₦30 million and a house at Sunshine Estate, Oba-Ile,” said Governor Aiyedatiwa to a cheering audience.
Demehin, a native of Ilaje Local Government Area, was lauded for her key defensive role during the tournament and described by the Governor as “a shining example of talent, discipline, and resilience.”
“I am extremely delighted to welcome home our brave daughters. Their dedication, hard work and team spirit helped secure this victory. You have not only brought glory to the nation, but you have honoured Ondo State,” the Governor added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and sports development, pledging increased support for grassroots talents and a renewed push to return Sunshine Stars Football Club to Nigeria’s top-flight league.
“We will continue to invest in young talents, create enabling environments, and provide the resources necessary for them to excel in all fields of endeavour — especially sports,” he affirmed.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honouring the Super Falcons nationally, stating that such gestures boost athletes’ morale nationwide.
In his welcome address, Henry Segun, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, assured that with the Governor’s continued backing, the state’s sporting achievements would only grow stronger.
Dele Sunday Ajayi, Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for being the first state governor to formally honour Super Falcons players and officials from his state, calling the gesture a “powerful motivation” for young athletes.
Responding emotionally to the recognition, Tosin Demehin expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Governor and the people of Ondo State.
“Receiving this honour from my home state means the world to me. As a former Sunshine Queens player, I know there is massive potential in women’s football here. This support gives hope to many young girls with dreams like mine,” she said.
She further called on stakeholders to support the development of women’s football in Ondo State, stressing the need for collective investment in both men’s and women’s football in Nigeria.
The event was graced by top government officials including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service Bayo Philip, Commissioner for Women Affairs Dr. Seun Osamaye, and SSA to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation Orioye Gbayisemore.
