Nigeria’s Senate has announced a ₦100 million donation to the Flamingos following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the financial reward during Tuesday’s plenary.
He described the team’s achievement as a landmark moment for Nigerian and African football.
The announcement followed a motion moved by Senator Abdul Ningi (ADC-Bauchi Central).
Ningi sought the Senate’s commendation and recognition of the young football stars for their outstanding performance.
He described the Flamingos’ victory as historic, noting that the players had achieved what several other Nigerian national teams had struggled to accomplish.
He particularly praised their determination, considering the relatively low expectations surrounding the team before the tournament.
Ningi, however, expressed disappointment over what he described as inadequate publicity and national recognition for the players.
He lamented that their return to Nigeria had not attracted the level of official celebration their achievement deserved.
“Proof of Nigerian Youths’ Potential”
Seconding the motion, Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC-Edo North) praised the Flamingos for defeating Japan in the final.
He described their triumph as proof of the enormous potential, resilience and determination of Nigerian youths.
Oshiomhole asked Nigerians to celebrate the country’s achievements rather than concentrate exclusively on its challenges.
He also appealed to the Senate leadership to provide financial support that would help the players pursue their education alongside their football careers.
Adopting the motion, the Senate congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his support for sports development.
It commended Nigerians on the historic victory.
It also recognised the contributions of the National Sports Commission, particularly its chairman, Shehu Dikko.
The lawmakers called on the Federal Government to provide adequate financial rewards and compensation to the players.
“Keep These Children Together”
Akpabio described the Flamingos’ triumph as a major milestone for Nigeria and Africa.
He highlighted their victories over established football powerhouses, including Brazil and Japan.
He asked the Federal Government to reward the players appropriately.
He also called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to retain the promising youngsters, nurture their talents and prepare them for greater achievements.
“I want to commend the Flamingos, the U-17 youth team of Nigeria, for defeating major countries such as Brazil and Japan to win the Under-17 World Cup for Africa for the first time and for Nigeria,” he said.
“We also urged, and we pray that the Federal Government will recognise these children accordingly and give them adequate rewards.”
“The Nigerian Football Federation, under its leadership, should see the need to keep these children together and develop them further.”
The Senate President further appealed to wealthy Nigerians and sports enthusiasts to support the players and invest in young sporting talents.
He said the ₦100 million donation was intended to recognise the Flamingos’ exceptional achievement and motivate them to continue bringing honour to Nigeria.
He congratulated the players, the Senate Committee on Sports and Nigerians, describing the team’s triumph as an achievement worthy of national celebration.
