President Bola Tinubu’s recent cash reward to Nigeria’s victorious Super Falcons has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the decision to pay the players in U.S. dollars instead of naira.

On Monday, Tinubu received the Super Falcons and their trophy at the Presidential Villa, following their dramatic comeback win against Morocco in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). In a celebratory move, each of the 24 players was awarded $100,000, while the technical team received a total of $500,000. He also conferred national honours on the team for their achievement.

However, what was meant to be a moment of national pride has been met with mixed reactions. While some citizens praised the President for acknowledging the team’s hard work and bringing honour to the country, others criticized the decision to dole out rewards in foreign currency at a time when the Nigerian economy is battling inflation and a struggling naira.

One social media user, Oke O. Matarazi, questioned the logic behind rewarding in dollars. “You’re telling us we’re trying to stabilise the naira, yet you dash out $100,000 to footballers and $50,000 to technical staff in foreign currency?” he posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Meanwhile, hardworking citizens and pensioners are choking under inflation.”

Another critic, Ifeanyi Okafor, simply asked, “Why didn’t he pay them in Naira?”

At the heart of the criticism is the symbolism of the gesture. Critics argue that if the federal government wants citizens to have confidence in the naira, then national rewards should be paid in local currency. To them, the dollar payout undermines efforts to build faith in the naira and may signal that even the highest levels of leadership do not trust it.

Still, others see nothing wrong with the reward. “Very commendable, Mr. President. A well-merited award and gifts for the girls. They made us all proud,” wrote Femi Yekinni, celebrating the President’s gesture.

As of Monday, the exchange rate stood at ₦1,534.21 to $1, according to the Central Bank of Nigeria. This means each Super Falcons player received the equivalent of over ₦153 million.

The debate continues, as many Nigerians weigh the balance between rewarding national heroes and practicing economic prudence in tough times.