Billionaire businessman and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has confirmed he will honor his $500,000 USD pledge to Nigeria's Super Eagles, even after their heartbreaking semi-final defeat at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Super Eagles lost 4-2 on penalties to host nation Morocco in Rabat on Wednesday, January 14, following a tense 0-0 draw after 120 minutes of regulation and extra time.
The loss ended Nigeria's bid for a place in the final against Senegal.Rabiu, who had originally pledged the $500,000 as a reward for winning the semi-final (with additional $50,000 bonuses per goal scored), took to social media shortly after the match to reaffirm his commitment.
In a statement widely reported across Nigerian media, Rabiu praised the team's resilience and spirit: “You left everything on the field, and that is worthy of celebration. As a token of appreciation for your remarkable journey and effort, I am still going ahead to fulfil the pledge of $500,000 USD.”
He described the gesture as recognition of the players' hard work, dedication, unity, and the immense pride and joy they brought to millions of Nigerians throughout the tournament.
The pledge was part of a broader incentive package Rabiu announced earlier, which included a potential $1 million plus $100,000 per goal if the team had won the final.
Despite the outcome, his decision to proceed with the semi-final reward has been hailed as a show of support for the national team.
The announcement comes amid widespread commendations for the Super Eagles' gallant performance in AFCON 2025, with many Nigerians expressing appreciation for Rabiu's generosity in recognizing the players' efforts beyond the result.
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