Nigeria’s Super Eagles may have suffered a heartbreaking exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, but their efforts have been recognised with a generous reward from one of the country’s leading businessmen.
Billionaire industrialist and BUA Group chairman, Abdulsamad Rabiu, confirmed that the $500,000 (approximately ₦700 million) incentive he pledged before the semi-final will still be paid, despite Nigeria’s 4-2 penalty shootout defeat to hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Rabiu praised the team for their character, resilience, and unity throughout the tournament, choosing to focus on their achievements rather than the disappointment of elimination.
In a statement released on Wednesday night, the BUA Group chairman wrote:
“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.”
He added that while football, like life, does not always reward effort with immediate success, the commitment and togetherness displayed by the squad were just as important as lifting the trophy.
“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,” Rabiu said.
Nigeria’s campaign ended in narrow fashion on Wednesday, after a tense and goalless 120 minutes against Morocco, followed by a penalty shootout in which the hosts prevailed. Despite the emotionally draining exit, the Super Eagles’ performances throughout the tournament earned widespread admiration from supporters.
The team will now face Egypt in the third-place play-off, while Morocco take on Senegal in the final. Rabiu urged the players to hold their heads high, emphasising that the experience gained from AFCON 2025 will serve as a foundation for future success.
Nigeria, three-time African champions, last lifted the AFCON trophy in 2013 under the late Stephen Keshi.
