NSC Chairman Dikko Debunks Allowance Delay Claims Ahead of WAFCON Final

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has debunked claims of delayed allowance and bonus payments to the Super Falcons ahead of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final, scheduled to take place on Saturday in Rabat, Morocco. Speaking during The Morning Brief on Channels Television on Friday, Dikko clarified that all entitlements due to the players, coaching crew, and officials have already been processed and disbursed. He emphasized that the federal government, under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ensured that all payments were made ahead of time to allow the team focus fully on the upcoming final. “There is no truth in the reports suggesting that the Super Falcons are being owed. All their allowances and bonuses have been paid. In fact, the process was completed on Tuesday, July 23, and the funds were already with the players,” Dikko said during the live interview. He noted that President Tinubu had personally approved the payment and instructed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to ensure that every member of the team received their due entitlements before the close of business on Friday, July 25. “This is part of a new culture of prompt support and respect for our national athletes. The President gave a clear directive, and it was fully complied with. We want our players to go into the final with peace of mind, knowing that their welfare is a top priority,” he added. Dikko stressed that the federal government is committed to building a reliable and transparent sports administration where athletes are not distracted by financial concerns, especially during major tournaments. He explained that this development is not isolated to football alone, but is being extended across all national teams, including the D’Tigress basketball team who are preparing for the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Côte d’Ivoire. “This is the model we are now implementing across all sports timely payment, transparency, and accountability. Our athletes deserve this, and it’s the least we can do for them in return for their sacrifices and service to the country,” he said. With the Super Falcons set to face Morocco in the WAFCON final, Dikko called on Nigerians to rally behind the team and disregard any misinformation that could distract from their preparations. He reaffirmed that the federal government remains fully supportive of the players and confident in their ability to bring home the trophy.

The Super Falcons, who are the most successful team in African women’s football history, will be aiming to secure a record-extending 12th WAFCON title when they take on the host nation in Rabat.