By Olalekan Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba)
When Nigeria’s Senior National Women’s Football Team, the illustrious Super Falcons, clinched their record 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, the nation was awash with pride. The monumental cash rewards and national honours they received from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) were met with both applause and criticism.
For some, it was a well-deserved recognition of relentless hard work and global excellence. To others, it was an extravagant splash of national wealth amidst economic hardship. But as Abraham Lincoln once said, “You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.” Rewarding excellence is an investment in the future.
A similar situation arose last night when Nigeria’s female basketball team, D’Tigress, defeated Mali to claim their fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title. As expected, PBAT, ever responsive to such national milestones, promptly extended his congratulations, promising to host them upon their return. Now, the public anticipation has shifted to what rewards these champions will receive. Will it mirror the Super Falcons’ largesse—$100,000, a national honour, and a house? Should it be less?
In my view, the answer is simple: Nothing is too much to reward excellence.
A NATION IN DESPERATE NEED OF POSITIVE ROLE MODELS
We must confront a painful truth: Nigeria today is a society where the pursuit of quick wealth has overshadowed integrity, diligence, and moral values. Our youth are increasingly seduced by the hollow glitz of social media influencers who champion mediocrity, indiscipline, and vice, while the silent, uncelebrated heroes—those honing their God-given talents in sports, academics, and innovation—are left in the shadows.
It is against this backdrop that PBAT’s reward system for athletes becomes not just a gesture of appreciation but a strategic moral compass. In a country where young people are fast losing faith in the dignity of honest labour, these rewards offer a narrative of hope: “Talent, hard work, and discipline still pay in Nigeria.”
Sports has a unique power to unify, inspire, and redirect societal values. Whenever a Nigerian athlete triumphs on the global stage, even the bitter taste of economic hardship momentarily fades as millions unite in celebration. The victories of these athletes are not personal; they are a balm to the collective psyche of a nation in search of good news.
HISTORY TEACHES US: REWARDING EXCELLENCE IS NATIONAL DUTY
The successes of the 1993-1998 era remain a reference point for my generation. The Golden Eaglets’ FIFA World Cup triumph, the Super Eagles’ historic World Cup qualification, Chioma Ajunwa’s Olympic gold, and Nigeria’s unprecedented Olympic football gold in 1996—these were not just sporting feats; they shaped national identity and pride. Unfortunately, many of those heroes were promised much but received little or nothing. Some passed away without ever enjoying the fruits of their labours.
Today, President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” reward policy seems poised to right these historical wrongs. For critics who argue that the rewards are excessive, I say: the cost of neglecting excellence is far greater than any reward we give today.
WHY THIS “RENEWED HOPE” MUST BE SUSTAINED AND EXPANDED
- Inspiring a Generation: Rewarding athletes instantly demonstrates to young Nigerians that self-development and discipline are still pathways to national recognition and financial success. This can shift focus away from destructive get-rich-quick mindsets.
- Fostering National Unity & Mental Wellness: Sporting victories offer collective moments of joy and identity in a divided, stressed nation. They help Nigerians forget their woes, if only for a moment, and unite in shared pride.
- Combating Social Vices: Unlike entertainment trends that glorify moral decadence, sports demand discipline, teamwork, and resilience. These are values we must amplify among our youths if we are serious about redeeming our future.
GOVERNORS AND LGAS MUST EMULATE THIS POLICY
This reward policy should not be limited to the Presidency. State Governors must see this as an opportunity to foster youth engagement, community development, and positive societal change. Local governments, being closest to the grassroots, should implement talent discovery programs in primary and secondary schools through athletics meets, football camps, and other sports initiatives.
If nurtured from a young age, a single successful athlete can uplift an entire family and even a community. The ripple effect of sports success in alleviating poverty is a proven fact globally.
BEYOND SPORTS: REWARDING TALENT IN EDUCATION, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION
While the focus now is on athletes, this reward system should be a template for recognizing excellence across sectors. Talents in education, technology, creative arts, and innovation deserve equal attention and encouragement. Let the message resonate: Nigeria rewards excellence, wherever it is found.
In conclusion, I strongly endorse the President’s “Renewed Hope” reward initiative. Sustaining and expanding this policy could be one of the most transformative legacies of this administration. As John F. Kennedy aptly noted, “A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers.”
God bless Nigerian Talents!
God bless President Bola Ahmed Tinubu!
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Hon. (Chief) Olalekan Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba) is Convener, United Premier Movement, Abeokuta
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