From the Nigeria Magazine Desk
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rewarded Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, with ₦100 million for each player following their historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The announcement was made by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu during a presidential reception held in honour of the team at the State House in Abuja.
Under the reward package, each player will receive a ₦100 million Federal Government Savings Bond, while Head Coach Hakeem Busari will receive ₦100 million in cash. Members of the technical crew will each receive ₦50 million.
The players’ rewards will be invested in five-year Federal Government Savings Bonds, reportedly offering annual interest rates of approximately 12 to 14 per cent. The arrangement is intended to secure the young athletes’ financial future while supporting their education and continued development in football.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, explained that the decision to invest the players’ rewards was influenced by their young ages, allowing them to access the principal when they are older.
The Flamingos made history on November 7, 2026, after defeating Japan 2–1 in the final to become the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The historic achievement and presidential recognition mark an important moment for Nigerian women’s football, highlighting the growing potential of young female athletes and the importance of investing in grassroots sports development.
The victory was secured through goals from Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaku in the 47th minute, while Japan scored a late goal through Fuki Ito.
The achievement represents a major milestone for African women’s football and highlights the importance of nurturing young sporting talents.
