The Chairman of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, has announced that he will fulfil his $500,000 pledge to the Super Eagles despite the team’s failure to win the Africa Cup of Nations title.
Rabiu made this known on Thursday in a message shared on his official Instagram page, where he praised the team for their resilience, courage and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
He commended the players for giving their all on the pitch, noting that although the ultimate prize was was not secured, they had made Nigerians proud with their performance.
“You fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage and determination on the pitch. Though it wasn’t meant to be this time, you have made every Nigerian proud,” Rabiu wrote.
Reflecting further, Rabiu added that outcomes do not always reflect effort, stressing that the spirit, passion and unity displayed by the team were what truly mattered.
“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. You left everything on the field, and that is worthy of celebration,” he said.
As a gesture of appreciation, he confirmed that he would still honour the $500,000 reward earlier promised to the team, describing it as recognition of their hard work, dedication and the joy they brought to Nigerians during the tournament.
Rabiu had earlier pledged the incentive before the tournament as part of efforts to motivate the team in their quest for continental success.
The Super Eagles reached latter stages of the competition but were eliminated in the semi-finals after losing to Morocco.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Wednesday lost 4–2 in a penalty shootout to host nation Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a tense 0–0 draw at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Rabiu encouraged the players to keep their heads high, expressing confidence that the experience gained at the tournament would lead to greater success in future competitions.
