Enough to wipe away a few tears. Nigerian billionaire Abdul Samad Rabiu, Africa’s 6th richest person according to Forbes, will donate $500,000 (430,000 euros) to Nigeria’s players, despite their elimination on penalties from CAN 2025 against Morocco (0-0, 4-2 tab).
The businessman, whose fortune is estimated at $5.1 billion (4.3 billion euros), promised on January 10 to pay this sum to Super Eagles “in the event of victory in the semi-final, with an additional $50,000 for each goal scored.” He upped the ante for the final with a promise of “an extra $1,000,000, plus $100,000 for every goal scored in the final.”
Unfortunately, history will have seen the Nigerians neither score nor win against the Moroccan Atlas Lions. Regardless, Abdul Samad Rabiu still felt in a very generous mood and will still donate the amount to the team.
“Nigeria will always be proud of you”
“You fought with heart, you gave everything and you showed unfailing courage and determination on the field,” he communicated this Wednesday, January 14 on X. Even if it was not enough this time, you made all Nigerians proud. »
“The spirit, passion and unity you have shown is what really matters,” he added. You gave your all on the pitch, and that deserves to be celebrated. As a sign of recognition for your remarkable journey and efforts, I am maintaining my promise to donate $500,000. It’s a way to salute your hard work, your dedication and the joy you have brought to our nation. »
He concludes with a nice message of hope: “Keep your head high, Super Eagles : Experience, lessons learned and your mind will set you up for even greater success next time. Nigeria will always be proud of you, and we believe in your future victories! »
An enthusiasm and encouragement which should allow Nigerian players to swallow the pill of their elimination, and to prepare with determination for the next CAN, in 2027 in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
