President Bola Tinubu has rewarded Nigeria’s Super Falcons and D’Tigress with huge cash gifts, national honours, and houses, a move that has stirred nationwide debate. Both teams were recognised for their outstanding performances on the international stage.

Earlier this week, Tinubu celebrated the D’Tigress after they secured their historic fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship. At a special reception, Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing the president, conferred the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) honour on all players and technical crew members.

The president also approved $100,000 for each player and $50,000 for the coach and technical staff. Every award recipient will also receive a housing unit. This came just a week after the Super Falcons received similar rewards for their football achievements.

The gesture has received mixed reactions. Many Nigerians feel such lavish spending is questionable, given the current economic struggles. However, Calvin Emeka, CEO of ACL Sports, called for a balanced view. He acknowledged that while the sums are large, the athletes deserve the recognition and rewards for their hard work.

In another proud moment for Nigerian sports, the Super Falcons earned double nominations ahead of the 2025 Ballon d’Or Awards after winning their record-extending 10th Women’s African Cup of Nations. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is in the running for the Women’s Yachine Trophy, while head coach Justine Madugu is nominated for Women’s Coach of the Year.

Emeka hailed Nnadozie as the best female goalkeeper in the world and tipped Madugu for at least a second-place finish, though he believes Sarina Wiegman of England might clinch the top spot after leading her team to consecutive Euro titles. He also suggested that Tinubu should have used the receptions to encourage sports administrators to develop long-term strategies to keep Nigeria winning internationally.