National Teams
President Tinubu clears Nigeria’s dues ahead of WAFCON final, signals ‘new era’
By Dayo Awoniyi
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have received a major morale boost ahead of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final, following the federal government’s approval of full payments for all outstanding bonuses and allowances.
President Bola Tinubu approved the immediate disbursement of all entitlements owed to the team, a move confirmed on Thursday in Abuja by Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission.
“All dues covering the team’s journey up to the July 26 final have been fully cleared,” Dikko said, noting that the payments include allowances for players, coaching staff, and officials.
Describing the move as part of a broader reform agenda, Dikko said, “This is the kind of sports administration we are building—one rooted in dignity, trust, and shared prosperity. Future generations will appreciate President Tinubu’s reforms in the sports sector.”
The timely intervention comes as the Falcons prepare to face hosts Morocco in Rabat on Saturday, with hopes of reclaiming the continental crown.
The gesture extends beyond football. Dikko also announced that Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, will receive improved allowances and bonuses ahead of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.
“This will now be the standard practice going forward—timely payments without drama or delays,” he affirmed.
The move signals a marked shift in the federal government’s approach to athlete welfare, often marred in the past by delayed or unpaid entitlements.
With this new policy direction, the Tinubu administration appears intent on restoring confidence and professionalism in Nigerian sports governance.
