Nigerian Billionaire Pledges $500,000 Bonus Despite AFCON Elimination by Morocco

The Nigerian national team is set to receive a significant financial bonus, despite their elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals after a 4-2 penalty shootout loss to Morocco.

Despite the exit, Nigerian businessman Abdulsamad Rabiu confirmed he would honor his previous pledge to the national team players. He wrote on his official Instagram account: "I confirm my commitment to disburse a financial bonus of 500,000 US dollars, in recognition of the great efforts, spirit of commitment, and happiness you gave to our nation."

He continued: "You fought with your hearts, gave everything you had, and showed great courage and a high fighting spirit on the field. Even if the goal was not achieved this time, you made every Nigerian proud of you."

Rabiu concluded his message: "Sometimes football doesn't give us the result we wish for, but the spirit, passion, and unity you showed are what matter most. You left everything on the field, and that deserves celebration."

It is worth noting that Rabiu had initially promised the Nigerian players $500,000 if they advanced past the AFCON semi-finals, in addition to $100,000 for every goal scored against Morocco.