The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has called for fair compensation for Nigerian sports coaches, arguing that they deserve as much recognition as players.

Speaking on Sunday at the RCCG’s monthly Thanksgiving Service in Ebute-Meta, Lagos, Adeboye applauded President Bola Tinubu for awarding the naira equivalent of $100,000 and three-bedroom apartments to each Super Falcons player for their WAFCON 2024 victory.

He, however, questioned the decision to give only $50,000 to the team’s technical staff, including head coach Justin Madugu.

“Without coaches, the team will not succeed,” Adeboye said during his sermon titled The Winning Team. “I don’t want to stir controversy, but I’m not sure coaches should receive less than players.”

Reflecting on his own experience as a boxer in 1960, Adeboye recalled how his coach pushed him and his teammates to their physical limits. “We thought we were training for the army. But looking back, I’m grateful. A good coach sees your potential and brings out the best in you.”

He concluded by blessing the coaches and urging continued recognition of their critical role in Nigeria’s sporting success.