Dare Babalola
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday defended the reward package given to the Super Falcons following their victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Following mixed public reactions on social and mainstream media platforms, Onanuga, in a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, said President Bola Tinubu did what a grateful nation should do.
He drew a comparison with the BBNaija reality show, pointing out that its winner receives a N150 million grand prize.
“When you remember that Multichoice, the organizer 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. President Tinubu has rewarded excellence, creativity, hard work, soccer artistry, and the undying Nigerian spirit.”
Onanuga’s reaction comes after President Tinubu, on Monday, announced a special cash reward and national recognition for members of the Nigerian women’s national football team following their historic victory at the 2024 WAFCON.
The Falcons claimed their 10th continental title after a dramatic win in Rabat, Morocco.
While the President’s move received praise from many Nigerians and sports enthusiasts, particularly for promoting women’s sports, some online commentators questioned the timing, monetary value, and broader implications in the face of economic challenges.
