WAFCON Heroine Tosin Demehin Gets N30m, House Gift from Gov Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has honoured Super Falcons defender, Tosin Demehin, with a ₦30 million cash reward and a house at Sunshine Estate, Oba-Ile, Akure, for her outstanding role in Nigeria’s victorious outing at the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Demehin, a native of Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State, played a vital role in the team’s defence during the tournament in Morocco, helping Nigeria clinch the continental title once again.

The reward was announced at a civic reception on Monday, August 4, 2025, in Akure, organised to celebrate the Ondo State-born members of the WAFCON-winning squad, including the team’s media officer, Mary Akinsola, and secretary, Mary Oduboku, who also received ₦15 million each from the state government.

“This is a proud moment for us. Tosin Demehin has made Ondo State proud on the continental stage. As a token of our appreciation, the state government is awarding her ₦30 million and a house at Sunshine Estate, Oba-Ile,” Governor Aiyedatiwa, to loud applause from guests.

He described Demehin as a “shining example of talent, discipline, and resilience,” applauding her dedication and the spirit she displayed throughout the tournament.

“I am extremely delighted to welcome home our brave daughters. Their dedication, hard work and team spirit helped secure this victory. You have not only brought glory to the nation, but you have honoured Ondo State,” Governor Aiyedatiwa.

Government Vows Support for Sunshine Stars and Youth Development

Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s full commitment to youth empowerment through sports, pledging to continue investing in young talents across the state. He also promised robust support to Sunshine Stars Football Club, aiming for their prompt return to Nigeria’s top football league, the NPFL.

“We will continue to invest in young talents, create enabling environments, and provide the resources necessary for them to excel in all fields of endeavour, especially sports,” Governor Aiyedatiwa.

Praise from State Officials and Stakeholders

Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Segun, in his remarks, affirmed that sports development would continue to receive strategic attention in Ondo State.

Dele Sunday Ajayi, Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, lauded the Governor’s gesture, calling it unprecedented.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa is the first to honour Super Falcons players and officials from his state. This is a strong motivation for upcoming athletes,” Ajayi said.

Demehin Responds: ‘This Honour Means the World’

An emotional Tosin Demehin expressed her gratitude for the recognition and reward from her home state.

“Receiving this honour 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 stated.

She also made a passionate appeal to stakeholders to throw their weight behind the growth of women’s football in Ondo State, describing it as a collective responsibility.

Recognition for Backroom Heroes

Both Mary Akinsola and Mary Oduboku, from Ondo South Senatorial District, were also celebrated for their invaluable contributions behind the scenes during Nigeria’s WAFCON campaign. The Governor’s decision to reward their effort equally sparked admiration among sports stakeholders, who see it as a recognition of all roles, not just those on the field

National Acknowledgment and Presidential Commendation

Governor Aiyedatiwa extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honouring the Super Falcons at the national level. He noted that such high-level recognition boosts athletes’ morale and inspires future stars.

Dignitaries at the reception included:

Dr. Olayide Adelami – Deputy Governor

Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti – Secretary to the State Government

Prince Segun Omojuwa – Chief of Staff

Bayo Philip – Head of Service

Dr. Seun Osamaye – Commissioner for Women Affairs

Orioye Gbayisemore – SSA on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation