Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has rewarded Yakurr-born Miracle Usani, a member of the Super Falcons squad that won the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with N50 million, a plot of land in Calabar, and an appointment as the state’s Sports Ambassador
The governor made the announcement on Wednesday during a reception at his office in Calabar, praising Usani for her outstanding performance and her contribution to women’s football and national pride.
“We are very happy to have you here today. Your determination and spirit have blown me away. You have proven that what a man can do, a woman can also do, and even better. You are not just an international personality today, but a symbol of pride for Cross River, Nigeria, and Africa,” Otu said.
Reflecting on his own experiences as a youth athlete, the governor commended the resilience of sportsmen and women and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the state’s sports infrastructure to nurture future champions.
“Our sports system has structural challenges we are correcting, but with stories like yours, we are confident the future is bright. Sports is no longer a pastime but a serious commercial venture, and your success should motivate other young people in the state,” he added.
Presenting the rewards, Otu said, “We have agreed on N50 million and a plot of land in Calabar for you. You are now on our VVIP protocol list. Whenever we have official state events, you’ll be part of us as our Sports Ambassador.”
Usani, who plays as a defender for Edo Queens F.C., expressed gratitude to the governor for the recognition, recounting her challenging journey to football stardom.
“My journey wasn’t easy. Growing up, people said girls who play football become masculine and won’t get married. There was no female team in Uke, so I played with boys. But I was determined. Today, I’m proud to represent Nigeria and Cross River at the highest stage,” she said, dedicating her success to God, her parents, and the people of Cross River State.
Governor Otu encouraged the sports community to continue supporting young athletes, promising that his administration would keep investing in talent development to ensure that “many more Miracles” emerge from the state.
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Congrats