Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has honoured Super Falcons star defender, Tosin Demehin, with a ₦30 million cash reward and a house at Sunshine Estate, Oba-Ile, Akure, in recognition of her stellar performance at the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where Nigeria clinched the championship title.

The reward was announced on Monday during a civic reception held in Akure for indigenes of Ondo State who were part of the victorious national team at the tournament hosted in Morocco.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also extended monetary awards of ₦15 million each to Mary Akinsola, the team’s media officer, and Mary Oduboku, the team’s secretary, acknowledging their contributions to Nigeria’s historic triumph.

“This is a proud moment for us,” the governor declared to a cheering audience. “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.”

Demehin, a native of Ilaje Local Government Area and a key figure in the Super Falcons’ defense line, was praised by the governor as a model of talent, discipline, and resilience.

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

He also commended Akinsola and Oduboku, who hail from the southern senatorial district of the state, for their vital support roles during the campaign.

Governor Aiyedatiwa used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment.

“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,” he said.

The governor further pledged increased support for Sunshine Stars Football Club of Akure, with the aim of securing a swift return to Nigeria’s premier league.

In his address, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Segun, assured the governor of continued growth in sports through strategic investment and consistent government support.

Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, Dele Sunday Ajayi, lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for being the first state leader to officially recognise and reward Super Falcons players and officials of Ondo origin, describing the gesture as a powerful motivation for young athletes.

In her response, Tosin Demehin expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and reward.

“Receiving this honour from my home state means the world to me,” she said. “As a former Sunshine Queens player, I know the potential that lies in women’s football here. This support gives hope to many young girls with dreams like mine.”

She also urged stakeholders to intensify efforts toward the development of women’s football in Ondo State, stressing that the growth of both male and female football in Nigeria requires collective responsibility.