President Bola Tinubu has rewarded members of Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, with N100 million savings bonds each following their historic triumph at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The President also approved N100 million for the team’s head coach, Hakeem Busari, and N50 million for each member of the technical crew in recognition of their contributions to the achievement.
The rewards were announced on Wednesday by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who represented the President at a reception held in honour of the victorious team at the State House, Abuja.
According to the President, the players’ financial rewards would be kept in trust through designated banks to support their future.
He described the team’s achievement as a landmark moment for Nigerian and African football, noting that the Flamingos had made history by becoming the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Tinubu also said the victory made the team the first African women’s side to win a FIFA World Cup title at any level.
He praised the players for their resilience, discipline, and teamwork, particularly their ability to recover from an opening-match defeat to Poland and win six consecutive games to emerge champions.
The President urged the young footballers to remain focused, humble, and committed to their careers, stressing that their success had inspired millions of girls across the country and the continent.
He also commended Busari, members of the technical crew, medical personnel, administrators, and other officials for their dedication and sacrifices.
Tinubu further acknowledged the contributions of the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, the Director-General, Bukola Olopade, and the Nigeria Football Federation to the development of sports in the country.
He also appreciated the players’ parents, guardians, and supporters for their encouragement throughout the tournament.
Speaking at the reception, Flamingos captain, Harmony Chidi, attributed the team’s success to faith, determination, hard work, and unity.
She explained that the players remained united and focused on their objective despite losing their opening match against Poland.
Chidi assured Nigerians that the team would continue to work hard and strive for greater achievements in future competitions.
“This is just a starting point. I will not say we have arrived. As young players, this is good and we have to keep working so that we can keep representing the country and winning more trophies,” she said.
Head Coach Busari also credited the historic victory to the players’ commitment, teamwork, and support from the Federal Government.
The Flamingos secured the title after defeating Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Morocco.
Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for Nigeria, while Oluebube Umejiaku netted the decisive goal two minutes into the second half to seal the victory.
The triumph marked the first time an African country had won the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
