Tinubu Rewards Flamingos Players with ₦100m Each for Historic World Cup Triumph

President Bola Tinubu has approved a ₦100 million reward for each member of Nigeria’s Under-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, following their historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The rewards were announced on Wednesday, November 11, by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, who received the players and their officials at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on behalf of the President.

Under the reward package, each player will receive a ₦100 million Federal Government savings bond, which will be held in trust until they attain the age of 18. The arrangement is intended to protect the young players’ financial interests while securing the money for their future.

The team’s head coach, Akeem Busari, will receive ₦100 million in cash, while members of the technical crew are to receive ₦50 million each in recognition of their contributions to the team’s success.

Speaking at the reception, the First Lady said the rewards fulfilled the President’s promise to recognise Nigerian athletes who bring honour to the country through their performances.

She praised the players for their determination, discipline and teamwork, particularly their ability to recover from an opening-match defeat and go on to win six consecutive games to claim the trophy.

Oluremi also acknowledged the efforts of the coaching staff, medical personnel, football administrators, parents and supporters who contributed to the team’s achievement. She urged the young champions to remain focused on their education and football careers despite the recognition and financial rewards.

The Flamingos made history on Saturday, November 7, when they defeated Japan 2-1 in the final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat. Goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku secured Nigeria’s first-ever title in the competition and made the country the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The presidential reward comes a day after the Nigerian Senate announced a separate ₦100 million donation to the team in recognition of their achievement.

The victory has brought renewed attention to the potential of young female footballers in Nigeria, with the Flamingos’ success marking a major milestone for the country and African women’s football.