Nigerian international and Super Falcons forward Rasheedat Ajibade has voiced her frustration over what she describes as a lingering delay in the fulfillment of cash rewards and other benefits promised to the team by the Federal Government following their triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Speaking during a media interaction in Lagos, the Atlético Madrid Femenino star revealed that the much-celebrated pledge of $100,000 to the team — announced by government officials in the wake of their historic win — has yet to be paid, months after the victorious squad returned home to a hero’s welcome.
“We were grateful when the promise was made, and we believed it would come through quickly, but to date, we have not received the $100,000 or several of the other benefits we were assured of,” Ajibade said. “It’s disheartening because we gave everything on the pitch for the country, and these commitments were made in the full glare of the public.”
The Super Falcons, who defeated South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in the final to claim their record-extending 12th WAFCON title, had been showered with praise by fans, dignitaries, and top political leaders. In the days following their victory, the Presidency and the Ministry of Sports announced several reward packages, including the cash sum, national honors, and improved welfare provisions for women’s footballers in Nigeria.
However, Ajibade noted that apart from the verbal pledges and symbolic gestures, little tangible support has reached the players’ accounts. She emphasized that timely delivery of such promises is not only a matter of fairness but also a crucial factor in motivating athletes to keep striving for excellence.
The 24-year-old forward, affectionately known as “The Girl with the Blue Hair” for her distinctive matchday look, explained that she was speaking out not solely for herself, but for her teammates, many of whom rely on national team call-ups and bonuses as a major part of their income.
“We represent Nigeria with pride, but respect must be mutual. When promises are made in front of millions, it sends the wrong message when they are not honored,” she added.
The revelation has stirred a fresh wave of public discussion on the treatment of Nigerian athletes, particularly female footballers, who have long complained about disparities in pay, bonuses, and post-tournament recognition compared to their male counterparts.
Sports analysts warn that the ongoing delay could damage the trust between players and sports authorities, especially as preparations begin for the Super Falcons’ qualification campaign for the 2026 WAFCON and the upcoming Paris 2028 Olympic qualifiers.
As of press time, the Federal Ministry of Sports Development has yet to release an official response to Ajibade’s statement, though sources within the ministry hinted that “administrative processes” and “budgetary clearance” are responsible for the delay in disbursing the funds.
The Super Falcons remain Africa’s most successful women’s football team, with a record that has made them global ambassadors for Nigerian sport. Yet Ajibade’s comments underline a recurring theme — that beyond the trophies and celebrations, Nigerian athletes continue to grapple with delayed entitlements and systemic neglect.
For now, the team — and the Nigerian public — await action from the government to turn the fanfare of promises into concrete reality.
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