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The Digest:

Bayo Onanuga, the presidential spokesperson, has defended the significant financial rewards given to the Super Falcons by President Bola Tinubu for their recent Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) victory. Onanuga, in a post on his X handle, expressed surprise at public criticism, drawing a comparison to the ₦150 million grand prize awarded to the winner of the Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) reality show.

Key Points:
  • Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga defended President Tinubu's rewards for the Super Falcons.
  • Onanuga questioned why some Nigerians are unappreciative of the rewards.
  • He compared the Falcons' prize to the ₦150 million grand prize of the BBNaija reality show.
  • Onanuga stated that President Tinubu rewarded "excellence, creativity, hard work, soccer artistry, and the undying Nigerian spirit."
  • President Tinubu had awarded each of the 24 players $100,000 (naira equivalent) and a three-bedroom apartment.
  • The Super Falcons were also conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) for their 10th WAFCON title.
Onanuga's justification comes amidst discussions surrounding the scale of the rewards, emphasizing that the President's gesture celebrates national achievement and dedication in sports. This comparison aims to put the recognition in perspective, highlighting the value placed on the Falcons' historic triumph.

Sources: Channels Television