BUA Group chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu has said he will fulfil his $500,000 pledge to the Super Eagles despite their exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Mr Rabiu made this known in a post on his official X account on Wednesday night following Nigeria’s penalty shootout loss to Morocco in the semi-final.
Reacting to the match, he said the players gave their effort on the pitch and represented the country at the tournament.
“To our brave Super Eagles, you fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage and determination on the pitch,” he wrote.
He said the outcome of the match did not take away from the team’s performance during the competition.
“Though it wasn’t meant to be this time, you have made every Nigerian proud,” Rabiu stated.
Addressing the result of the game, he noted that effort does not always translate to victory in football.
“Sometimes, even our best efforts don’t bring the outcome we hope for, but the spirit, passion, and unity you displayed are what truly matter,” he wrote.
Rabiu announced that he would still proceed with the $500,000 payment earlier promised for a semi-final victory against Morocco.
“As a token of appreciation for your journey and effort, I am still going ahead to fulfil the pledge of $500,000 USD,” he said.
He explained that the decision was based on the players’ work and the support they generated during the tournament.
“This is in recognition of your hard work, dedication, and the joy you have brought to our nation,” Rabiu added.
He also urged the players to remain focused ahead of future competitions.
“Keep your heads high, Super Eagles. The experience and lessons will fuel greater success next time,” he wrote, adding that Nigerians would continue to support the team.
QEDNG had earlier reported that Rabiu pledged a total of $1.5 million in bonuses to the Super Eagles following their 2–0 quarter-final win over Algeria.
The incentive package included $500,000 for a semi-final victory, an additional $50,000 for each goal scored in the semi-final and $1 million for winning the final, with a further $100,000 promised for every goal scored in the final.
Nigeria were eliminated from the tournament after a 0-0 draw with Morocco, which ended in a 4-2 penalty shootout loss.
Morocco converted four penalties, while Nigeria scored two, to book a place in the final against Senegal.
Despite the defeat, Abdul Samad Rabiu’s statement confirms that the $500,000 pledge will still be paid to the Super Eagles.
