Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has honoured Super Falcons defender, Tosin Demehin, with a cash reward of ₦30 million and a house at Sunshine Estate, Oba-Ile, Akure, for her exceptional performance at the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where Nigeria emerged champions.
The Governor made the announcement on Monday, August 4, 2025, during a civic reception held at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Akure, to celebrate indigenes of the state who played key roles in Nigeria’s WAFCON victory in Morocco last month.
Alongside Demehin, Governor Aiyedatiwa also announced ₦15 million cash gifts each for Mary Akinsola, the Super Falcons’ media officer, and Mary Oduboku, the team’s secretary, both of whom also hail from Ondo State.
“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,” the Governor declared.
Demehin, a native of Ilaje Local Government Area, was a key figure in Nigeria’s defensive setup during the tournament. Governor Aiyedatiwa described her as a symbol of discipline, talent, and resilience, and commended her for raising the state’s flag high.
He also applauded Akinsola and Oduboku, both from the state’s southern senatorial district, for their vital contributions behind the scenes in the team’s success.
Reaffirming his commitment to sports development and youth empowerment, the Governor promised increased investment in sports and youth-focused initiatives. He further pledged full support for Sunshine Stars Football Club of Akure, assuring stakeholders that the government would back efforts to ensure the club’s return to the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL).
“We are determined to see Sunshine Stars back in the top flight. Our government will provide all necessary support to make that happen,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
The Governor also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honouring the Super Falcons at the national level, emphasizing the positive impact such recognition has on sports development and athlete morale.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Segun, assured that with continued government support, sports would continue to thrive in the state. Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, Dele Sunday Ajayi, praised the Governor for being the first to publicly reward Super Falcons members from his state, calling it an inspiration to future stars.
Responding on behalf of the honourees, Tosin Demehin expressed her profound gratitude to the Governor and people of Ondo State.
“This recognition means the world to me. As a former Sunshine Queens player, I know the power of support. This gesture gives hope to many young girls with dreams like mine,” she said, calling on stakeholders to support women’s football development in the state.
Dignitaries at the event included Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service Bayo Philip, Commissioner for Women Affairs Dr. Seun Osamaye, and SSA on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation Orioye Gbayisemore.
