BY UBON EKANEM, CALABAR – The Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has conferred the State’s highest honour of VVIP (Very Very Important Person) on Cross River-born Super Falcons player, Miracle Usani.
In addition to the queenly honour bestowed on her, the governor also doled out ₦50 million and a parcel of land to celebrate the rising football star.
Governor Otu, who announced the heartwarming package when he hosted Miracle in his office on Wednesday, praised her exceptional talent and determination in making the State proud
Usani’s recognition is based on her outstanding performance as part of the Super Falcons team that won their 10th Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the tournament hosted by Morocco in August 2025.
According to the Governor Otu, “Miracle’s talent has brought pride to the state”, adding, “Today, I finally met with our star, our very own Miracle on the Pitch, whose exceptional talent, alongside that of other young female players, has brought immense pride and joy to our nation, and most especially to us as a state.”
Presenting the gifts, the governor said, “As part of the honour, I hereby confer VVIP status, she will enjoy all rights and privileges accorded to VVIPs in Cross River, particularly at state events.
“This is our way of celebrating excellence and inspiring other young people to reach for greatness”.
“We have approved ₦50 million and a plot of land in Calabar for you. You are now on our VVIP protocol list and will serve as Sports Ambassador of Cross River State.”
In reaffirming his administration’s commitment to reviving the State’s sports sector, Governor Otu noted that sports have evolved beyond recreation into a viable economic and developmental tool.
He urged other young people to draw inspiration from Usani’s success, adding that “stories like hers show that the future is bright”.
Miracle’s Humble Beginnings
Miracle, who plies her trade with Edo Queens Football Club of Benin, expressed gratitude to Governor Otu for the recognition and gifts.
Recalling her humble beginnings and the challenges pursuing a career in football, Miracle said, “My journey wasn’t easy. I played football with boys because there were no female teams where I grew up.
“People discouraged me, but I remained focused. Today, I’m proud to represent Nigeria and Cross River on the world stage”.
Usani, who was also part of the Flamingos to the 2022 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup, dedicated her success to God, her parents, and the people of Cross River State.
Recalled that the Super Falcons made history, clinching their 10th WAFCON title with a stunning 3-2 victory over hosts Morocco who dominated the early stages of the final match by scoring two quick goals in the 12th minute and 24th minute.
After the break, Nigeria came out smoking and stunned the 21,000-capacity Olympic Stadium into silence, scoring in the 61st, 74th and 88th minutes to snatch victory at the final whistle.
