Nigerian businessman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, CFR, OON, has gone ahead to fulfil the pledge of “$500,000” he made to the Super Eagles.
Rabiu, Founder and Chairman of BUA Group, had pledge the money to the “brave” Super Eagles should they defeat host nation, Morocco, in the semi finals of the Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) 2025.
However, despite not winning the showdown against the Atlas Lions, the Philanthropist announced, he will still fulfil the pledge, but, this time in recognition of their “hard work, dedication, and the joy you have brought to our nation”.
Rabiu is of the belief that, sometimes “even our best efforts don’t bring the outcome we hope for”, but, what really matters is the “spirit, passion and unity” displayed.
The pledge was made by the former Chairman of the Nigerian Bank of Industry (BOI) after Nigeria ousted Algeria 2-0 in the quarter finals of the tournament.
In the semi finals in Rabat on Wednesday night, Nigeria and Morocco finished without a goal after 120 minutes, forcing the game into a penalty shootout, where the Super Eagles fell 2-4 to the North Africans.
Taking to X, Rabiu wrote: “To our brave Super Eagles,
“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.
“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. You left everything on the field, and that is worthy of celebration.
“As a token of appreciation for your remarkable journey and effort, I am still going ahead to fulfill the pledge of $500,000 USD. This is in recognition of your hard work, dedication, and the joy you have brought to our nation.
“Keep your heads high, Super Eagles – the experience, lessons, and spirit will fuel even greater success next time. Nigeria will always be proud of you, and we believe in your future victories!”
Morocco will now fight for the AFCON trophy when they meet Senegal in the final in Rabat on Sunday 18 January, 2026 at 20:00 (WAT).
