Nigerians on social media have expressed outrage after the Federal Government awarded ₦200,000 to Nafisah Abdullahi, the overall winner of the TeenEagle Global Finals competition.

 

The prize was presented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji AlausaTunji Alausa, at a ceremony in Abuja. However, the gesture sparked criticism online, with many describing the reward as a poor reflection of the government’s priorities.

 

Critics drew comparisons with the government’s treatment of sports stars, recalling that each member of the victorious Super Falcons team once received $100,000 (over ₦150 million), in addition to other perks, for their achievements.

 

“Sportsmen were paid in dollars while shining glory was paid in naira,” wrote Ifedayo Adeyemi.

“Even me as a poor man I can give her ₦200,000,” mocked Sani Musa.

Another user, Usman Yusuf, quipped: “At least she can pay for her flight from Abuja to Maiduguri.”

 

Others pointed out the imbalance between academic excellence and entertainment rewards. Okachi David noted: “Somebody will win BBNaija and get ₦100m plus SUV plus deals, but an academic champion gets ₦200,000.”

 

Meanwhile, the Atiku Foundation stepped in to recognize the champions, awarding fully funded scholarships to Nafisah Abdullahi, Rukaiya Fema, and Khadija Kalli for their outstanding performance at the global event.

 

Seventeen-year-old Nafisah, celebrated for her mastery of English, critical thinking, and eloquence, beat competitors from 69 countries to emerge as the global winner.