Billionaire industrialist and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, announced on Thursday that he will fulfil his $500,000 pledge to the Super Eagles despite the team’s failure to win the Africa Cup of Nations title. In a message on his official Instagram page, Rabiu applauded the team’s resilience, writing, “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.”
Reflecting on the outcome, Rabiu stressed that the team’s spirit mattered more than the result, adding, “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.” He confirmed the cash reward as a token of appreciation for their dedication, encouraging the players to build on the experience for future success. The Super Eagles lost 4-2 on penalties to hosts Morocco after a 0-0 draw in the semi-final.