Nigeria’s world champion Flamingos have received a hero’s welcome at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with the Federal Government announcing massive financial rewards for the players and officials following their historic FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup victory.
The triumphant team visited the State House on Wednesday, November 11, where they were hosted at a special reception organised in recognition of their remarkable achievement in Morocco.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, congratulated the players, coaching crew and officials for making Nigeria and the African continent proud.
The Flamingos made history by becoming the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and the first African women’s national team to lift a FIFA World Cup trophy at any level.
In a major reward package announced at the reception, each player will receive a ₦100 million Federal Government five-year savings bond.
The bonds will attract annual interest of between 12 and 14 per cent, with each player expected to earn approximately ₦1.1 million monthly to support their education, welfare, training and other needs.
The principal sum will remain secured until each player turns 18.
Head coach, Akeem Busari, will also receive a ₦100 million reward, while every member of the technical crew will be presented with ₦50 million in recognition of their role in delivering the historic title.
The First Lady specially praised Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku for their decisive contributions to Nigeria’s victory in the final.
Umejiaku, who emerged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, also clinched the Golden Ball award for her outstanding performance.
Oluremi Tinubu urged the young champions to remain humble, disciplined and focused, stressing the importance of building on their success as they pursue greater achievements in their football careers.
