The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced a major financial boost for Nigeria’s Super Falcons ahead of their quarter final clash against Cameroon at the ongoing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), doubling the team’s goal bonus in a move aimed at motivating the players.

NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, on Thursday, disclosed that the commission had increased the goal bonus from $5,000 to $10,000 for every goal scored by the nine-time African champions during the tournament. Blueprint reports

The development comes after the Super Falcons secured qualification for the quarter finals, where they will face long-time rivals Cameroon in a crucial knockout encounter.

Private sector backs Falcons

In addition to the enhanced bonus announced by the NSC, Dikko revealed that the commission’s private sector support initiative, coordinated by the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, had also pledged $10,000 for every goal scored by the team.

The arrangement means the Super Falcons will now receive a combined $20,000 for each goal scored during the competition.

As a result, Nigeria’s six goals in the group stage have attracted a total reward of $120,000, representing one of the biggest performance incentives offered to a national team in recent years.

The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the commission to encourage improved performances and reward excellence in Nigerian sports.

Full bonuses approved

Despite Nigeria’s defeat to Malawi in their final Group C fixture, the NSC also approved the payment of the team’s full match bonuses.

Dikko said the commission had directed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to pay the players complete bonuses for all three group matches as an additional morale booster ahead of the knockout phase.

This means the players will receive the full match bonuses covering their victories over Zambia and Egypt, as well as the final group game against Malawi, despite the disappointing result.

The decision, according to the commission, reflects its determination to keep the players motivated as they pursue another continental title.

Focus shifts to Cameroon

With financial incentives now significantly enhanced, attention has shifted to Sunday’s quarter final against Cameroon.

The encounter is expected to renew one of African women’s football’s biggest rivalries, with both teams battling for a place in the semi finals and a ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Nigeria will enter the match as one of the tournament favourites, having demonstrated quality and resilience throughout the group stage.

The Super Falcons will also be aiming to extend their dominance over the Indomitable Lionesses in continental competitions.

Boost for title ambition

The latest incentive package has been widely welcomed as a timely morale booster for the players and technical crew.

Observers believe the increased rewards underscore the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to supporting elite athletes and encouraging outstanding performances on the international stage.

With substantial financial rewards now attached to every goal and victory, the Super Falcons will be eager to justify the confidence reposed in them when they take to the pitch against Cameroon.

Victory over the Central African side would not only secure a place in the semi finals but also move Nigeria one step closer to reclaiming the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.