AFCON 2025
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has honoured Miracle Usani, a Yakurr-born defender in Nigeria’s 2025 WAFCON-winning Super Falcons squad, with ₦50 million, a plot of land in Calabar and a role as the state’s Sports Ambassador.
The Governor made the presentation during a reception at his office in Calabar, praising the young footballer for her contribution to Nigeria’s continental triumph and for inspiring a new generation of sportswomen.
“We are very happy to have you here today,” Otu said. “Your determination and spirit have blown me away. You have proven that what a man can do, a woman can also do, and even better. You are not just an international personality today, but a symbol of pride for Cross River, Nigeria, and Africa.”
Drawing from his youth involvement in sports, the Governor spoke about the grit and drive that athletes embody, and assured that his administration is working to strengthen the state’s sports infrastructure.
“We have a very determined Commissioner for Sports who is doing a great job,” he noted. “Our sports system has structural challenges we are correcting, but with stories like yours, we are confident the future is bright.”
He stressed that sports have become a serious economic sector, not merely recreation, and said Usani’s achievements should inspire other young talents. “Today we celebrate you so that other children can see that there is hope,” he said. “What God cannot do does not exist. You have brought honour to this state, and we will continue to follow your progress proudly.”
Formalising the reward, Otu said: “We have agreed on ₦50 million and a plot of land in Calabar for you. You are now on our VVIP protocol list. Whenever we have official state events, you’ll be part of us as our Sports Ambassador.”
Usani, who plays for Edo Queens F.C. and was born on 20 June 2007, thanked the Governor for the recognition and reflected on her path to success.
“My journey wasn’t easy,” she said. “Growing up, people told me that girls who play football become masculine and won’t get married. There was no female team in Uke where I grew up, so I played football with boys. It wasn’t easy, but I was determined. Today, I’m proud to represent Nigeria and Cross River at the highest stage.”
Usani, who also featured at the 2022 FIFA Women’s World Cup, dedicated her accomplishments to God, her family and the people of Cross River State.
