President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a massive presidential reward scheme for the victorious national Under-17 women’s football team, the Flamingos, awarding ₦100 million in Federal Government savings certificates to each player following their historic triumph at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The monetary package was declared by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu during a formal reception hosted for the world champions at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday. Under the presidential directive, the ₦100 million awarded to each player will be issued as five-year savings certificates and Federal Government bonds yielding an annual 14 percent interest rate. The structured investment is designed to protect and guarantee the young athletes’ long-term financial security. Additionally, Head Coach Akeem Busari received a cash reward of ₦100 million, while each member of the technical and medical staff was honored with a ₦50 million cash reward.
Addressing the delegation on behalf of the President, the First Lady commended the squad for fulfilling the administration’s pledge to honor athletes who bring global distinction to the country. She emphasized that the victory elevated Nigerian football on the global stage and established a new benchmark for women’s athletics across Africa.
The presidential honors follow the team’s historic 2–1 victory over former champions Japan in the World Cup final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco. Nigeria became the first African nation to lift any FIFA women’s international trophy, capping a remarkable tournament run.
The Flamingos rebounded from an opening-day 2–1 defeat to Poland in Group B by securing back-to-back victories over Puerto Rico (2–0) and two-time defending champions DPR Korea (3–1) to reach the knockout stage. The team subsequently eliminated Mexico 2–1 in the Round of 16 and edged Venezuela 1–0 in the quarter-finals. In the semi-finals, Nigeria dispatched South American powerhouses Brazil 3–1 to qualify for their maiden final.
During the championship match against Japan, midfielder Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute with a long-range strike. Tournament Golden Ball winner Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 47th minute. Despite a late consolation goal by Japan’s Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, Nigeria defended their lead through stoppage time to secure the 2–1 win and seal their place in global football history.
