Billionaire industrialist and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, has reaffirmed his commitment to fulfil the $500,000 pledge he made to the Super Eagles, despite the team’s failure to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Rabiu made the announcement in a message shared on his official Instagram page on Thursday, where he commended the Nigerian team for their resilience, determination and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
He praised the players for giving their best on the pitch, noting that although the ultimate goal was not achieved, their performance inspired pride among Nigerians.
“You fought with your hearts and gave your all. Though it didn’t end the way we hoped, you made every Nigerian proud,” he wrote.
The BUA chairman noted that success is not always measured by trophies, stressing that the unity, passion and commitment displayed by the team were worthy of recognition.
“Sometimes our best efforts do not produce the result we desire, but the spirit and togetherness you showed truly matter. You left everything on the field, and that deserves celebration,” he added.
In recognition of the players’ hard work and the excitement they generated during the competition, Rabiu confirmed that he would honour the $500,000 reward earlier promised to the team.
DAILY GAZETTE had earlier reported that Rabiu announced the cash incentive ahead of the tournament as part of efforts to motivate the Super Eagles in their campaign for continental success.
Nigeria progressed to the latter stages of the competition but were eliminated at the semi-final stage after losing 4–2 on penalties to host nation Morocco following a goalless draw at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Rabiu urged the players to remain confident, expressing optimism that the experience gained from the tournament would translate into greater achievements in future outings.
