Nigeria’s disappointment at falling short in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has been tempered by a significant gesture of support, with billionaire businessman Abdulsamad Rabiu confirming a substantial bonus for the Super Eagles despite their elimination.
The Nigerian side were knocked out on Wednesday after losing 4-2 on penalties to hosts Morocco, having held their opponents to a goalless draw in regulation time at a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The defeat ended Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the final, but it did not diminish the backing they received from one of the country’s most prominent industrialists.
Abdulsamad Rabiu, chairman of the BUA Group, announced that he would honour the $500,000 reward he had pledged to the team ahead of the semi-final, even though the result did not go in Nigeria’s favour.
The decision was widely seen as recognition of the team’s efforts and their overall performance during the tournament.
In a statement released on Wednesday evening following the match, Rabiu praised the players for their commitment and fighting spirit throughout the competition.
“You fought with your hearts, you gave everything, and you showed true courage and determination on the field. Even though it wasn’t planned this time, you made every Nigerian proud,” Rabiu said.
Rabiu went on to reflect on the nature of football and competition, stressing that success is not always immediately rewarded with silverware.
He underlined the importance of the unity and passion shown by the Super Eagles during their AFCON campaign.
“Sometimes even our best efforts don’t bring the result we hope for, but the spirit, passion and unity you have displayed are what really matters. You left everything on the field, and that deserves to be celebrated,” Rabiu added.
The businessman confirmed that the $500,000 incentive, initially promised as motivation ahead of the semi-final clash, would be paid in full.
The bonus, he said, was intended to acknowledge the team’s hard work and the excitement they generated among Nigerian supporters throughout the tournament.
Nigeria’s run at the 2025 AFCON came to an end at the last-four stage, but their performances drew praise for resilience and organisation, particularly in the tightly contested match against Morocco.
Holding the host nation scoreless over 90 minutes underlined the Super Eagles’ defensive discipline, even if penalties ultimately proved decisive.
Attention now turns to the third-place playoff, where Nigeria are scheduled to face Egypt on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Morocco will take on Senegal in the final on Sunday.
Rabiu urged the players to remain positive and continue building on the experience gained during the tournament.
14 Jan. 2026
To our brave Super Eagles,
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. 🇳🇬
Sometimes, even our best efforts don’t bring the outcome… pic.twitter.com/L5kgaDxc56
— Abdul Samad Rabiu CFR, CON (@asr_rabiu) January 14, 2026
Nigeria, three-time winners of the Africa Cup of Nations, last lifted the trophy in 2013 under the guidance of the late Stephen Keshi.
Since then, continental success has proved elusive, and the Super Eagles have also failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
While the AFCON title remains out of reach for now, the financial reward and public backing offered to the squad underline a belief that the foundations laid during this campaign could yet prove valuable for the future of Nigerian football.
