By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rewarded Nigeria’s victorious Under-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, with a massive financial package following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The reward, announced by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Wednesday during a reception for the team at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, includes a ₦100 million Federal Government Savings Bond for each player.
The savings bonds are structured to remain inaccessible until the players attain the age of 18, providing them with financial security and an opportunity to benefit from their achievement as they grow older.
Head coach Akeem Busari will also receive ₦100 million in cash, while members of the technical crew are to receive ₦50 million each in recognition of their contributions to the team’s success.
The gesture celebrates a remarkable campaign in which the Flamingos bounced back from a 2-1 opening defeat to Poland to win six consecutive matches and claim Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
Nigeria defeated defending champions North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil on their way to the final, before overcoming Japan 2-1 in Rabat on Saturday, November 7.
Goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku secured the historic victory, making Nigeria the first African nation to win the competition.
The triumph also marked Nigeria’s first FIFA World Cup title in women’s football and a landmark moment for African football.
The Federal Government’s reward further recognises the determination and resilience of the young players, whose achievement has brought national pride and inspired a new generation of girls to pursue their football dreams.
