The Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has rewarded the outstanding Super Falcons defender, Miracle Usani with ₦50 million, a plot of land in Calabar, and an appointment as the state’s Sports Ambassador.
The reception at the Governor’s Office in Calabar was filled with excitement as Governor Otu described the Yakurr-born player as a beacon of hope and a symbol of pride for the state and the nation as a whole.
“I am very happy to have you here today. 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,” the governor said. “You are not just an international personality today, but a symbol of pride for Cross River, Nigeria, and Africa.”
Otu recalled his days as a young athlete and praised the strength and resilience that define sportsmen and women. He assured that his administration is focused on rebuilding the foundation of sports in the state to groom future stars.
“We have a very determined Commissioner for Sports who is doing a great job. Our sports system has structural challenges we are correcting, but with stories like yours, we are confident the future is bright,” he said.
The governor stressed that sports have evolved beyond recreation to a serious business that can transform lives and create jobs. “Today we celebrate you so that other children can see that there is hope,” he added. “What God cannot do does not exist. You have brought honour to this state, and we will continue to follow your progress proudly.”
Presenting the rewards, Otu announced, “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., could not hold back her joy as she thanked the governor and the people of Cross River for their recognition. She spoke about her rough start in football and how perseverance brought her this far.
“My journey wasn’t easy. 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,” she said.
Usani, who also featured for Nigeria at the 2022 FIFA Women’s World Cup, dedicated her success to God, her parents, and the people of Cross River State.
