Billionaire industrialist and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, has announced he will fulfil his $500,000 pledge to the Super Eagles despite the team’s semi-final exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Rabiu made the declaration in a message shared on his Instagram page on Thursday, praising the team’s resilience and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
“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,” Rabiu wrote.
He acknowledged that results do not always reflect effort, stressing the value of the spirit displayed by the team. “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,” he added.
The business mogul confirmed the cash reward as a token of appreciation for the team’s hard work and the joy they brought to Nigerians. He had earlier pledged the amount to motivate the squad ahead of the tournament.
Nigeria’s campaign ended on Wednesday after a 0–0 draw with host nation Morocco, which they lost 4–2 on penalties in the semi-final.
Rabiu encouraged the players to hold their heads high, expressing confidence that the experience would fuel future success.
