Abdul Samad Rabiu: I’ll give Eagles Promised $500,000 Despite AFCON Semi-final Loss

Abdul Samad Rabiu, the chairman of BUA Group, says he will still donate $500,000 to the Super Eagles of Nigeria despite their loss to Morocco in the semi-final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). 

On Wednesday, Nigeria lost 4-2 on penalties to Morocco and failed to qualify for the final of the continental competition.

The match ended goalless after 120 minutes, and penalty misses from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi sealed the loss for Nigeria in the shootouts.

Before the match, Rabiu had promised to donate $500,000 to the Eagles if they defeated Morocco, and that every goal scored would attract an additional $50,000 for the team.

In a post on X after the match, the business tycoon said he would still fulfil the pledge, even though the Eagles failed to achieve the objective.

He described the money as a “token of appreciation” and “in recognition of your hard work, dedication, and the joy you have brought to our nation”.

“You fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage and determination on the pitch,” Rabiu said.

“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.”

Nigeria will face Egypt in the third-place match for bronze on Saturday.