Senate President Godswill Akpabio has fulfilled his ₦100 million pledge to Nigeria’s victorious U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, following their historic achievement at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Akpabio handed over the cash reward to the players and their officials on Wednesday during a reception held in their honour at the National Assembly in Abuja. The presentation took place after the team was formally introduced with the trophy they secured at the tournament.
The ceremony followed a resolution adopted by the Senate during Tuesday’s plenary session to celebrate the Flamingos for becoming the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The lawmakers had moved to recognise the team’s achievement after their successful campaign in Morocco.
Nigeria claimed the title by defeating Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat. The victory marked a significant milestone for African women’s football, with the Flamingos becoming the first team from the continent to lift the competition’s trophy. On their way to the final, the Nigerian youngsters also recorded victories over established football nations, including Brazil.
Addressing the players and officials at the National Assembly event, Akpabio described the Flamingos as a source of pride for Africa and the wider world. He encouraged the team to maintain their unity and urged the Nigeria Football Federation to ensure that the players continue to develop together.
The Senate President also called on the NFF to provide the necessary support and guidance to help the young footballers progress to the senior women’s national team, the Super Falcons. He stressed the importance of preserving the group and building on the success achieved at the World Cup.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, other principal officers of the Senate and several lawmakers were present at the reception. During his remarks, Akpabio also connected the timing of the Flamingos’ victory to Nigeria’s political calendar ahead of the 2027 general election and President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
“Perhaps, there is a special significance in the timing of your victory, particularly as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general election,” Akpabio said.
The ₦100 million payment represents the fulfilment of the reward promised by the Senate President following the team’s success. The reception provided an opportunity for the National Assembly to formally recognise the players and celebrate their achievement on the international stage.
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