The Senate announced a N100 million donation to Nigeria’s Under-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, on Tuesday. Senate President Godswill Akpabio made the announcement during plenary in Abuja.
The decision followed a motion by Senator Abdul Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central and chairs the Senate Committee on Sports. Ningi moved the motion to congratulate the team on its historic win at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The Flamingos defeated Japan 2-1 in the final in Rabat on Saturday. They became the first African team to win the tournament. Ningi described the achievement as historic. He said the young players accomplished what several other Nigerian national teams had struggled to achieve.
He further noted that the victory had not received enough publicity and national recognition. Ningi stated that the girls deserved celebration for bringing honour to Nigeria and Africa.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North, seconded the motion. He commended the team for defeating Japan and said the victory proved the potential and determination of Nigerian youths. Oshiomhole also called for financial support to help the players pursue education alongside their football careers.
The Senate adopted the motion. Lawmakers congratulated President Bola Tinubu for his support for sports development. They also praised Nigerians and the leadership of the National Sports Commission, particularly its Chairman, Shehu Dikko.
Akpabio then announced the N100 million donation from the National Assembly. He said the victory marked a significant achievement for Nigeria and Africa. “I want to commend the Flamingos, the Under-17 youth team of Nigeria, for defeating major countries such as Brazil and Japan to win the Under-17 World Cup for Africa for the first time and for Nigeria,” Akpabio stated.
He added that the donation would recognise the players’ achievement and encourage them to continue bringing honour to the country. The Senate also urged the Federal Government to provide further rewards for the players.
The Flamingos had earlier received a $50,000 cash gift from businessman Saleh Ahmadu during a reception in Morocco.
