TINUBU REWARDS FLAMINGOS WITH ₦100 MILLION EACH AFTER HISTORIC WORLD CUP TRIUMPH

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rewarded Nigeria’s victorious Under-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, with ₦100 million for each player following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The announcement came on Wednesday, November 11, during a reception at the State House in Abuja. First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu represented the President, describing the achievement as a source of national pride and a landmark for African women’s football.

PLAYERS TO RECEIVE FIVE-YEAR SAVINGS CERTIFICATES

Rather than handing the teenage players immediate cash payments, the President directed that each player’s ₦100 million reward be placed in a Federal Government savings bond. The certificates are expected to remain invested for five years, preserving the funds for their future.

The arrangement recognises the players’ young age and provides financial security beyond their sporting careers. It also offers an opportunity to benefit from long-term savings.

The package extends to the coaching staff. Head coach Akeem Busari is to receive ₦100 million in cash, while members of the technical crew are to receive ₦50 million each for their contribution to the campaign.

The Senate also announced a separate ₦100 million reward, further recognising the players’ achievement and bringing honour to Nigeria.

HOW THE FLAMINGOS MADE HISTORY

Nigeria secured the title on November 7, defeating Japan 2–1 in the final in Rabat, Morocco. The victory made the Flamingos the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku sealed the victory. Umejiaku also earned the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award.

The team’s journey demonstrated resilience. After losing their opening match 2–1 to Poland, the young Nigerians recovered and won six consecutive matches to claim the championship.

Their achievement marks a major milestone for Nigeria and African football, particularly in recognising young female athletes.

FIRST LADY PRAISES THE TEAM’S DISCIPLINE

At the reception, Oluremi Tinubu congratulated the players for their determination, teamwork and ability to overcome an early setback. She urged them to remain humble, disciplined and focused as they develop their careers.

She acknowledged the coaches, medical personnel, administrators, parents, guardians and supporters whose efforts helped the team succeed.

A BOOST FOR WOMEN’S FOOTBALL IN NIGERIA

The presidential reward is more than a financial gesture. It recognises the dedication required to succeed at the highest level of youth football. The achievement can encourage more girls to pursue sports and motivate institutions to strengthen grassroots development, coaching, facilities and player welfare.

For the Flamingos, the challenge is to build on this success. With continued guidance, education and professional support, these young champions can become future stars of Nigerian women’s football.

Their victory has brought the country together and opened a new chapter in African football history. Nigeria will hope this milestone becomes a foundation for sustained investment and greater opportunities for the next generation.

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