In a significant boost for Nigeria's national football team, the Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has announced a massive financial incentive for the Super Eagles contingent at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Rabiu's Million-Dollar Pledge
Abdul Samad Rabiu took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, January 11, 2026, to make the exciting announcement. This came immediately after Nigeria secured a 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria in Marrakech, a win that booked their place in the semi-finals against tournament hosts, Morocco.
Rabiu outlined a two-tiered reward structure designed to motivate the team through the final stages of the competition. "To encourage you, I pledge USD $500,000 to the players upon winning the semi-final, with an additional USD $50,000 for every goal scored," he stated.
He didn't stop there. The industrialist promised a further $1 million bonus if the Super Eagles go on to lift the trophy. An extra $100,000 will be awarded for each goal scored in the championship match, bringing the total potential reward to a staggering $1.5 million.
Team Momentum and Presidential Praise
Rabiu commended the team's performance against Algeria, highlighting their role in inspiring Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora. The quarter-final win was sealed by second-half goals from star striker Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams, extending Nigeria's unbeaten run in the tournament to five matches.
The team's success also drew praise from the nation's highest office. President Bola Tinubu congratulated the Super Eagles via his official X handle, writing, "Brilliant performance… inspiring. Go, Super Eagles! You have the support of all Nigerians."
Resolution of Pre-Match Tensions
The pledge from the BUA Chairman comes after reports of potential disruption ahead of the Algeria match. The team had reportedly considered boycotting training and travel due to unpaid bonuses, a recurring issue in Nigerian football.
Fortunately, the situation was resolved following intervention by the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, informed the News Agency of Nigeria that President Tinubu had approved the full AFCON 2025 budget on November 14, 2025. This approval ensured alignment between the National Sports Commission, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and the players.
All eyes are now on the crucial semi-final clash against Morocco, scheduled for Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The outcome will determine if the Super Eagles can take the first step towards claiming the substantial $1.5 million bounty promised by one of Nigeria's foremost business leaders.
