Aisha Falode: Prize Money to be paid to NFF, Not Players

Aisha Falode, the chair of the Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL), clarified that FIFA will pay the 2023 Women’s World Cup (WWC) prize money through the country’s federations, not directly to the players. 

She made this statement during a conversation with Lagos Talks FM.

Following the Super Falcons’ qualification to the second round of the WWC, FIFA’s secretary-general, Fatma Samoura, stated that the World Cup prize money would be “ring-fenced” to ensure it reaches the players without interference from third parties. 

READ ALSO: FIFA Women’s World Cup: Super Falcons Achievements So Far

This sparked controversy on social media, with some accusing FIFA of “shaming” the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

Falode emphasized that the Falcons’ prize money from the ongoing World Cup will still be routed through the NFF, as FIFA only instructed the federation to ensure the money reaches the players.

READ ALSO: Dosu: Super Falcons to Upset England in 2023 WWC Round of 16

FIFA had previously announced that every player participating in the World Cup group stage would earn $30,000, with match bonuses increasing to $60,000 in the second round. 

The Falcons qualified for the round of 16, with each player set to earn at least $60,000 for their achievement. 

They are scheduled to face England in the second-round contest on Monday.