AIYEDATIWA CELEBRATES WAFCON HEROINE, TOSIN DEMEHIN, WITH ₦30M, HOUSE — REWARDS CREW MEMBERS ₦15M EACH
Vows Full Support for Sunshine Stars’ NPFL Return
By Exponent News, Akure — August 4, 2025.
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has raised the bar for athlete recognition as he splashed ₦30 million cash and a house on Super Falcons defender, Tosin Demehin, for her pivotal role in Nigeria’s triumphant outing at the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
During a grand civic reception held in Akure on Monday, August 4, 2025, Aiyedatiwa also rewarded two crew members, Mary Akinsola (Media Officer) and Mary Oduboku (Team Secretary), with ₦15 million cash each, applauding their behind-the-scenes contributions to the Super Falcons’ continental victory in Morocco last month.
“This is a proud moment for Ondo State. Tosin Demehin showcased discipline, resilience, and talent that exemplify the true spirit of our people. We are gifting her ₦30 million and a house at Sunshine Estate, Oba-Ile, as a token of our appreciation,” Governor Aiyedatiwa announced to a thunderous ovation.
Demehin, a native of Ilaje Local Government Area, was instrumental in Nigeria’s defensive strength throughout the tournament, helping the team lift the trophy. The Governor described her as a beacon of hope and a role model for aspiring young athletes in Ondo State.
In addition to celebrating the players, Aiyedatiwa lauded the efforts of Akinsola and Oduboku, both indigenes of the state’s southern senatorial district, for their professional contributions off the field.
Reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to sports development, Aiyedatiwa declared, “We will intensify investments in youth talents and provide enabling environments for sports to thrive in Ondo State. Sunshine Stars Football Club will also receive full support to ensure their return to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).”
The Governor appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for hosting the victorious Super Falcons, noting that such national recognition boosts athletes’ morale and encourages grassroots sports development.
Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Segun, assured the Governor of relentless efforts to elevate sports in the state, citing ongoing strategic investments. Similarly, Dele Sunday Ajayi, Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, applauded Aiyedatiwa’s timely gesture, describing it as a morale booster for athletes and officials alike.
An emotional Tosin Demehin, in her response, thanked the Governor and the people of Ondo State for the overwhelming honour. “This recognition is deeply appreciated. As a former Sunshine Queens player, I see this as a call to action for all stakeholders to uplift women’s football in Ondo State and beyond. Together, we can nurture many more dreams like mine,” she said.
The event was graced by the 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 Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Orioye Gbayisemore, among other top government officials.
