Senate Pledges N100 Million to Flamingos, Urges Tinubu's Government to Match Reward

Posted : 12 November 2026

The Nigerian Senate has pledged N100 million to the Flamingos following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco. The lawmakers have also challenged President Bola Tinubu's administration to match the gesture with additional financial rewards for the victorious team.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the donation during Tuesday's plenary session after lawmakers considered a motion sponsored by Senator Abdul Ningi. The motion called for adequate recognition and compensation for the players following their historic achievement.

Akpabio promised that the money would be made available immediately, describing the donation as a gesture of appreciation for the young footballers who had brought international recognition to Nigeria.

"From the National Assembly, even if we do not have anything else to give these children, we will make a token of N100 million to them immediately," Akpabio said.

Ningi, who moved the motion, praised the team's determination and remarkable performance throughout the competition. He noted that the squad had been assembled barely six months before the tournament, making their achievement even more impressive.

However, the senator expressed disappointment over what he considered inadequate government recognition of the players. He particularly questioned the absence of senior government officials during their arrival in Nigeria, arguing that their reception did not reflect the importance of their achievement.

Senator Ned Nwoko also supported the motion, describing the Flamingos as national heroes. He praised their performances against established football nations, including Brazil and the United States, and urged Tinubu to accord the players appropriate national recognition.

The lawmakers further called on state governors to celebrate players from their respective states and recognise their contributions to Nigeria's historic success.

Beyond the financial reward, the Senate urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to keep the squad together. The lawmakers believe preserving the team's understanding and chemistry will help prepare the players for future international competitions and eventual progression to the senior national team, the Super Falcons.

Akpabio also appealed to wealthy Nigerians, business leaders and private organisations to provide additional incentives for the players.

The Flamingos secured their historic championship on November 7 after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final in Rabat, Morocco. Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria's advantage shortly after the restart. Japan's Fuki Ito pulled one back in the 80th minute, but Nigeria held on to claim the trophy.

The victory made Nigeria the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. It also marked the country's first global title in women's football.

The team has continued to attract financial support following the achievement. Supporter Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu previously donated $50,000 to the players during a reception organised by the National Sports Commission in Rabat.

Senate Pledges N100 Million to Flamingos, Urges Tinubu's Government to Match Reward

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