SENATE SPLASHES N100M ON FLAMINGOS

The Nigerian Senate has announced a N100 million donation to the country’s Under-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the financial reward during plenary on Tuesday, November 10, while presiding over a motion sponsored by Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central.

The motion sought national recognition for the young footballers following their remarkable achievement, which saw Nigeria become the first African country to win the tournament.

The Flamingos secured the historic title after defeating Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Rabat. Their impressive campaign also included victories over established football nations, including North Korea and Brazil.

Moving the motion, Ningi described the victory as a major achievement for Nigerian football and expressed concern that the team had not received sufficient publicity and official recognition despite bringing honour to the country.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who seconded the motion, praised the players for their determination and urged the Senate leadership to provide financial support that would help them pursue their education alongside their sporting careers.

Akpabio said the N100 million donation was intended to recognise the players’ efforts and encourage them to continue representing Nigeria with distinction.

The Senate also urged the Federal Government to provide adequate rewards for the team and called on the Nigeria Football Federation to keep the players together to support their development and prepare them for future international competitions.

The lawmakers further commended the National Sports Commission and its leadership for their contributions to the team's success.

The victory has been widely celebrated as a landmark moment for Nigerian and African women's football.