The National Sports Commission (NSC) has cleared the air about the payment of bonuses to the Super Falcons, denying rumors that the players had not been compensated. NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade addressed the controversy on Friday, reassuring the public that all outstanding bonuses had been paid prior to the Falcons’ final match against Morocco.
“We have made all payments, and I spoke directly with Rasheedat Ajibade and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and there are no issues,” Olopade confirmed during his appearance on Arise TV. He further explained that while the payments had been completed, there may be minor delays for one or two players due to banking issues with the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The NSC also reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling the promises made to the team, including the $100,000 reward for their victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Olopade emphasized that the presidential promise would be honored, assuring that the team would receive their due reward.
Furthermore, the Director-General highlighted ongoing efforts to deliver the promised houses for the players. “We are working closely with the Minister of Works and Housing and the Renewed Hope Housing Initiative to ensure the players get their homes as promised,” he said.
Olopade’s statements were in response to an interview where Ajibade expressed frustration over delayed payments. The star player had pointed out that although the bonuses were promised, they had not yet been fully received, adding that some payments were still in the process of being processed.
In his response, Olopade emphasized that the NSC takes athlete welfare seriously, stating, “We don’t play with the remuneration and welfare of our athletes,” and assured that all outstanding issues would soon be resolved.
