Tinubu Presidency Defends Super Falcons’ ₦152 Million Reward, Compares It to BBNaija’s ₦150 Million Prize

The Nigerian presidency has justified the national honors and ₦152 million cash rewards given to the Super Falcons after their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) triumph, drawing comparisons with the ₦150 million grand prize awarded to the winner of the popular reality TV show, Big Brother Naija (BBNaija).

In response to mixed reactions surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s generous rewards to the victorious Super Falcons team, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account to address public criticism.

He defended the government’s decision to award each player and technical staff a national honor (Officer of the Order of the Niger – OON), a three-bedroom flat, and $100,000 (approx. ₦152 million). The gesture came after Nigeria’s 3-2 victory over Morocco in the final match of the 2024 WAFCON held at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.Onanuga drew a comparison with BBNaija, saying:

“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. President Tinubu has rewarded excellence, creativity, hard work, soccer artistry, and the undying Nigerian spirit.”

The remarks were made following a celebratory reception hosted by President Tinubu for the Super Falcons at the State House. During the event, team captain Rasheedat Ajibade dedicated the trophy to the people of Nigeria and praised the resilience of every Nigerian girl with a dream.

“This title is for every young girl in our villages, towns and cities, for every family that believes in unity, and for our country Nigeria. It is also for Mr. President.”

While the presidential rewards have earned commendation from some quarters, the debate underscores deeper issues around currency preference, economic priorities, and how national achievements should be honored. The Tinubu administration, through Bayo Onanuga, insists that the gesture is a celebration of Nigerian excellence and a commitment to encouraging hard work, especially among the youth.