Flamingos Receive $50,000 Reward After Historic U-17 Women’s World Cup Victory

Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, have received a $50,000 cash reward following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The reward was presented to the players and officials by Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu, a sponsor of the National Sports Commission (NSC), during a special reception organised in their honour in Rabat on Saturday night.

The event was hosted by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, and its Director-General, Bukola Olopade.

Other dignitaries in attendance included the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

The cash reward came in recognition of the team’s outstanding performance, determination and historic achievement at the global competition.

The Flamingos made history on Saturday, November 7, after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat to emerge champions of the tournament.

The victory made Nigeria the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, marking a major milestone for Nigerian and African women’s football.

Nigeria’s triumph was particularly remarkable considering the team’s difficult start to the competition, having suffered a 2-1 defeat to Poland in their opening group-stage fixture.

However, the Nigerian youngsters bounced back strongly, winning their remaining six matches to secure the title.

Under the leadership of head coach Akeem Busari, the team defeated Puerto Rico and defending champions North Korea in the group stage before overcoming Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil in the knockout rounds.

Their 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-final secured Nigeria’s first-ever appearance in the final of the competition.

In the decisive encounter against Japan, Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage shortly after the restart.

Japan pulled one goal back in the 80th minute, but the Flamingos held on to secure a memorable victory and lift the trophy.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government, through the National Sports Commission, also facilitated the payment of outstanding bonuses owed to the players and officials for their participation in the competition, covering the preliminary qualifying rounds through to the final.

The development represents another recognition of the team’s commitment and sacrifice throughout their successful campaign.

The Flamingos’ historic achievement has attracted widespread congratulations from Nigerians, government officials and football stakeholders, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also celebrating the team for bringing pride to the country.

Nigeria’s victory has further strengthened the country’s reputation in women’s football and demonstrated the potential of investing in grassroots sports development.