Governor Aiyedatiwa Presents ₦30 Million Cash, an Apartment to Super Falcons' Demehin in Ondo State
Ondo State Honours Super Falcons Stars Demehin, Akinsola, and Oduboku
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has recognised the contributions of three members of Nigeria's victorious Super Falcons team at a ceremony held at the Ondo State Government House. Oluwatosin Demehin, Mary Akinsola, and Mary Oduboku were honoured for their significant roles in securing Nigeria's 10th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco.
Demehin, a defender who played every minute of Nigeria's six matches, was rewarded with ₦30 million and a house at Sunshine Estate, Oba-Ile. The Governor also bestowed upon her the traditional title "Yeye Akeweje Ilaje" by Oba Kayode Aiyetiwa, the Oba of Bariga in Ondo State. This recognition acknowledged her contributions to youth development in her community and celebrated her achievements as a key player in the Falcons' unbeaten run to the title.
Akinsola, the team media officer, and Oduboku, the team secretary, each received a cash reward of ₦15 million in recognition of their contributions behind the scenes. All three honourees hail from Ondo State.
Demehin's consistent displays at the heart of the defence were pivotal in the Falcons' triumphant run. Her outstanding performance was further highlighted when she scored her maiden international goal during Nigeria's emphatic 5-0 quarter-final demolition of Zambia's Copper Queens.
The Super Falcons, under the guidance of Head Coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, clinched the WAFCON title with a 1-0 victory over Mali in the final. This victory marked Nigeria's first major trophy since the 2016 Olympics.
Demehin, who currently plays with Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, has also received national-level recognition, including a three-bedroom apartment and $100,000 cash prize from President Bola Tinubu, as well as the national honour of Order of the Niger (OON).
The Governor's honours are intended to inspire the next generation of football talents in Ondo State, with Demehin, Akinsola, and Oduboku serving as models of talent, discipline, and resilience.
Pastor Tinubu, who has often emphasized the importance of sports during sermons, commended the trio from Naija for their outstanding performance at the AFCON tournament in Morocco. During a Sunday service last week, he specifically praised Oluwatosin Demehin for her exceptional display on the football pitch and her subsequent recognition by Governor Aiyedatiwa. Pastor Tinubu also acknowledged the contributions of Mary Akinsola and Mary Oduboku, who served the Super Falcons in their technical roles, and hoped their achievements would inspire young sports enthusiasts in Nigeria, particularly those from Ondo State, to strive for excellence in football.
