President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has come under criticism on social media following his decision to reward members of Nigeria’s Super Falcons with cash prizes denominated in United States dollars.
On Monday, Tinubu announced a $100,000 reward for each of the 24 players, while members of the technical crew were gifted $50,000 each, following the team’s historic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The President also conferred national honours on the team during a reception held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The Super Falcons stunned host nation Morocco in a thrilling final on Saturday, sealing their 12th WAFCON title and reinforcing their status as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.
While many Nigerians applauded the President’s gesture, others criticised the use of foreign currency for the rewards, arguing it contradicts the administration’s efforts to stabilise the weakening naira.
A section of users on X (formerly Twitter) expressed concern that the choice of dollars sends the wrong signal at a time when the country is grappling with inflation, foreign exchange scarcity, and economic hardship.
“You’re telling us we’re trying to stabilise the naira, yet you dash out $100,000 to footballers and $50,000 to technical staff in foreign currency?” wrote user Oke O. Matarazi. “What message are we sending? That celebrity applause is more valuable than economic discipline?”
He added, “Rewarding excellence is good. But leadership is also about symbolism, and this dollar generosity screams, ‘We don’t trust the naira either.’”
Another user, Ifeanyi Okafor, questioned, “Why didn’t he pay them in naira?”
Despite the criticism, others praised Tinubu for recognising the efforts of the Super Falcons and boosting national morale.
“Very commendable, Mr. President. A well-merited award and gifts for the girls. They made us all proud,” wrote Femi Yekinni.
Presidential spokesperson Olusegun Dada had earlier confirmed the rewards via his official X handle, noting that the recognition was in honour of the team’s outstanding performance and contribution to national pride.
The debate highlights the growing tension between symbolic presidential acts and public expectations amid Nigeria’s economic challenges.
Comments