The celebration continues for Super Falcons defender, Miracle Usani, as she received an impressive reward from Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu — ₦50 million, a plot of land in Calabar, and an appointment as the State’s Sports Ambassador.
The atmosphere at the Governor’s Office in Calabar was filled with excitement and pride as Governor Otu praised the Yakurr-born footballer, describing her as a symbol of hope, determination, and inspiration for young women in Cross River and across Nigeria.
“I am very happy to have you here today. Your determination and spirit have blown me away,” Otu said. “You have proven that what a man can do, a woman can also do — and even better. You are not just an international figure but a beacon of pride for Cross River, Nigeria, and Africa.”
Reflecting on his youth as a sportsman, the governor commended the resilience and discipline that define successful athletes and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reviving sports development in the state.
“Our Commissioner for Sports is doing a great job. Though we have structural challenges in our sports system, stories like yours give us confidence that the future is bright,” Otu added.
Governor Otu emphasized that sports have evolved beyond recreation to become a tool for empowerment, wealth creation, and social transformation.
“Today, we celebrate you so that other children can see that there is hope,” he said. “You have brought honour to this state, and we will continue to follow your progress with pride.”
While presenting the rewards, the governor announced:
“We have agreed on ₦50 million and a plot of land in Calabar for you. You are now on our VVIP protocol list. As our Sports Ambassador, you’ll be part of all official state events.”
Overwhelmed with emotion, Usani, who currently plays for Edo Queens F.C., expressed her gratitude to the governor and the people of Cross River for their recognition and support.
“My journey wasn’t easy,” she said. “People told me girls who play football become masculine or won’t get married. There was no female team in my community, so I played with boys. It was tough, but I stayed determined. Today, I’m proud to represent Nigeria and Cross River at the highest level.”
Usani, who also represented Nigeria at the 2022 FIFA Women’s World Cup, dedicated her achievements to God, her parents, and the people of Cross River State, promising to continue making them proud both on and off the field.
