Senate Donates N100m to Flamingos for Historic World Cup Triumph

The Senate has approved a donation of ₦100 million to Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The donation was announced during plenary on Tuesday after lawmakers considered a motion seeking national recognition and support for the victorious team.

The motion was moved by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Senator Abdul Ningi, who called for appropriate rewards for the players following their remarkable achievement.

Contributing to the debate, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, urged the Senate to provide financial support to the young footballers in appreciation of their efforts.

The lawmakers subsequently approved ₦100 million for the team.

The Flamingos made history on November 7 after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final to become the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku extended Nigeria’s lead shortly after the restart. Japan scored a late goal but could not prevent the Nigerian side from securing the trophy.

The victory followed an impressive recovery from an opening defeat to Poland, as the Flamingos recorded six consecutive wins to lift the title.

Umejiaku was also named the tournament’s best player, receiving the Adidas Golden Ball award.

The Senate’s gesture adds to the growing recognition and rewards for the team following their landmark achievement, which has brought renewed attention to women's football development in Nigeria and across Africa.