The National Sports Commission (NSC) has refuted ongoing reports suggesting that the Super Falcons have not received their match bonuses and promised rewards, stating that all outstanding payments were cleared before the team’s final match against Morocco at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

 

Speaking during a live appearance on Arise TV on Friday, NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, confirmed that the bonuses had been paid in full.

 

“I can confirm authoritatively that all their bonuses have been paid. I spoke with [team captain] Ajibade yesterday and with the NFF, and everybody is on the same page,” Olopade said.

 

His comments come in direct response to recent statements made by Super Falcons forward, Rasheedat Ajibade, who had raised concerns over unpaid bonuses and the $100,000 presidential reward promised to each player following their historic WAFCON victory.

 

“We have not received our money, but hopefully it would be paid. They have not paid. All the promises, we have not received anything,” Ajibade had said in an earlier interview, adding that match bonuses were still “a work in progress.”

 

However, Olopade acknowledged that there may still be minor delays affecting a few individuals, explaining that issues with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) may have prevented one or two players from receiving their payments.

 

“Maybe one or two players might not have collected due to bank issues with the CBN, but on the promise of Mr. President, I can assure you that it will be paid,” he said.

 

In addition to financial rewards, Olopade provided an update on the housing units promised to the players by President Bola Tinubu. He revealed that the NSC is working closely with the Ministry of Works and Housing and the Renewed Hope Housing Initiative to deliver the homes as pledged.

 

“We are in contact with the Minister of Works and Housing and with the Renewed Hope Housing Initiative to ensure that they receive their houses in record time,” he said.

 

Reiterating the NSC’s commitment to athletes’ welfare, Olopade emphasized: “The NSC doesn’t play with the remuneration and welfare of athletes. We are fully committed to ensuring all issues are resolved soon.”

 

The Super Falcons captured national attention after securing the 2024 WAFCON title, with many Nigerians urging the government to honor its financial and material commitments to the team.

 

With the NSC’s latest assurances, all eyes are now on the timely fulfillment of all presidential promises made to the champions.