“I Never Imagined Winning Something This Big”: Emotional Fan Reactions to MTN’s Football Mania Rewards

On Monday, December 8, 2025, MTN Nigeria and VDL Technologies brought joy to subscribers as they presented the grand prize and cash rewards to winners of the Football Mania Morocco Experience 2025 at the MTN Plaza, Lagos. The event spotlighted emotional stories from ordinary Nigerians who received extraordinary surprises through the football-themed digital game – football mania.

The star of the day, Sobowale Oluwatobiloba Oluwafemi, emerged winner of the all-expense-paid trip to Morocco, his first international trip. As his name was announced, applause broke out among attendees. “I’m feeling good. I’m feeling better. I’m feeling excited,” he said, grinning. “I’ve been playing Football Mania for many years. My friends kept winning and told me to give it a try. Since then, it’s been a joy.”

Reflecting on the magnitude of his win, Sobowale shared: “I never imagined winning something this big. It’s my wildest dream. This is my first time travelling, my first international trip. Thanks to MTN and Markov Games AI for making this possible.”

He offered a message to other subscribers: “You just have to come. Keep playing, and everything will be okay. Come and experience the beauty of Markov Games AI. Learn, play, and win.”

Earlier in the ceremony, the host energised the room by acknowledging the anticipation surrounding the grand prize. She said, “So many people are excited. When I got here, some of the players were already asking, ‘Where is the person going to Morocco?’”

MTN’s General Manager, Business Growth, Funso Finnih, commended all the winners and emphasised the company’s ongoing commitment to transparent, credible reward systems that deepen customer engagement.

The ceremony highlighted the impact of digital participation, the power of community engagement, and MTN’s dedication to rewarding subscribers in meaningful ways, from educational gaming tools to major international experiences.