President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to reward each member of the victorious Super Falcons squad with $100,000 and an additional $500,000 for the technical crew has triggered widespread criticism across social media, with many Nigerians questioning the symbolism of issuing the reward in U.S. dollars amidst a biting currency crisis.
While the gesture followed Nigeria’s dramatic 3–2 comeback win over hosts Morocco in the WAFCON 2024 final on July 26, many citizens took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice concern over what they called “economic insensitivity.” As of Monday, July 28, the naira was trading at ₦1,534.21 to $1, according to Central Bank of Nigeria data—heightening frustrations about the optics of a foreign currency giveaway by a government urging Nigerians to “buy Naija and defend the naira.”
Presidential aide Olusegun Dada had announced the cash gifts and national honours shortly after Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu hosted the team at Aso Rock. While many praised the administration’s gesture of recognition, a storm of critics raised questions about policy inconsistency and tone-deaf economic messaging.
“Rewarding excellence is important, but leadership is also about symbolism,” posted Oke O. Matarazi, a popular commentator on X. “This dollar generosity screams ‘even we don’t trust the naira.’ Meanwhile, manufacturers can’t access forex, pensioners are choking, and inflation is burning through salaries.”
Another user, Ifeanyi Okafor, wrote, “If you truly believe in the naira, you should’ve paid them in naira. You can convert if they wish—but make a statement. This contradicts every single economic sermon this government has preached.” Their sentiments reflect growing frustration over rising inflation, fuel price hikes, and economic policy disconnect.
However, not all feedback was negative. Femi Yekinni, responding via X, wrote: “Very commendable, Mr. President. A well-merited award and gifts for the girls. They made us all proud. Let’s not politicize their moment.” Supporters argue that the players deserve every dollar for putting Nigeria back on the continental football map.
The WAFCON 2024 reward, estimated at over $2.9 million, has ignited debates about patriotism, perception, and economic priority. As inflation tops 29.9% and small businesses continue to suffer from FX scarcity, the dollar payout—though celebratory—has become a lightning rod for bigger national frustrations.
