Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been one of Africa’s most consistent national teams at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), earning prize money on numerous occasions through podium finishes and deep tournament runs.
With their third-place finish at AFCON 2025, where they earned $2.5 million, attention has again turned to how often Nigeria has financially benefited from the continent’s biggest football tournament.
Podium Finishes and Major Earnings
Nigeria have finished in the top three at AFCON nine times.
Making them one of the most successful teams in the competition’s history.
These podium finishes have consistently come with prize money, particularly in recent editions where CAF significantly increased financial rewards.
The Super Eagles have won the AFCON title three times:
- 1980 (hosts Nigeria)
- 1994 (Tunisia)
- 2013 (South Africa)
They have also finished as runners-up four times and claimed third place nine times, including the most recent outing in 2025.
Growth in Prize Money Over the Years
While exact prize money figures from older AFCON editions were modest and not always publicly detailed, CAF’s financial rewards have grown significantly in the last decade.
AFCON 2013: Nigeria earned prize money as champions, though the amount was considerably lower than today’s standards.
2019: Nigeria finished third, earning prize money under CAF’s revised structure.
2023: Nigeria finished as runners-up, earning $4 million.
2025: Nigeria claimed third place and received $2.5 million.
These recent tournaments alone have brought in over $6.5 million for the Super Eagles, reflecting CAF’s push to financially strengthen African football.
Also read: Super Eagles Earn $2.5m as AFCON 2025 Prize Money Hits Record High
