Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has followed in the footsteps of President Bola Tinubu by rewarding Super Falcons defender Tosin Demehin and two other members of the team from the state.
The governor rewarded Demehin with ₦30 million cash and a house for her outstanding performance at the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Aiyedatiwa made the announcement during a civic reception in Akure held in honor of Ondo State indigenes who were part of the victorious Super Falcons squad at the tournament held in Morocco last month.
Alongside Demehin, the governor also gifted Mary Akinsola, the team’s media officer, and Mary Oduboku, the team’s secretary, the sum of ₦15 million cash each in recognition of their roles in Nigeria’s historic win.
According to him, “This is a proud moment for us. Tosin Demehin has made Ondo State proud on the continental stage.
Governor Aiyedatiwa announced to a cheering audience” As a token of our appreciation, the state government is awarding her with ₦30 million and a house at Sunshine Estate, Oba-Ile.”
Demehin, who hails from the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State and played a crucial defensive role throughout the tournament, was described by the governor as a shining example of talent, discipline, and resilience.
He noted, “I am extremely delighted to welcome home our brave daughters. Their dedication, hard work, and team spirit helped secure this victory, adding, You have not only brought glory to the nation, but you have honored Ondo State.
Aiyedatiwa praised the contributions of Akinsola and Oduboku, both of whom are also from the southern senatorial district of the state, for their key support roles in the Super Falcons’ campaign.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment in the state.
The governor said, “We will continue to invest in young talents, create enabling environments, and provide the resources necessary for them to excel in all fields of endeavor, especially sports,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa also pledged to give maximum support to the Sunshine Stars Football Club of Akure to ensure the quick return of the team to the nation’s premier league.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for honoring the Super Falcons team at the national level, noting that such gestures have far-reaching impacts on the morale of athletes across the country.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Segun, promised the Governor that sports would continue to soar in the state with consistent support and strategic investment.
Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, Dele Ajayi, commended the governor for being the first state governor to honor Super Falcons players and officials who hailed from the state, describing the act as a strong motivation for upcoming athletes.
Responding, Tosin Demehin expressed heartfelt gratitude to the governor and the people of Ondo State for the warm reception and generous reward.
She said, “Receiving this honor from my home state means the world to me. As a former Sunshine Queens player, I know there is massive potential in women’s football here. This support gives hope to many young girls with dreams like mine.”
Demehin also called on stakeholders to rally behind the development of women’s football in the state, stressing that the growth of Nigerian football, both male and female, is a collective responsibility.
