The Nigerian Senate has announced a donation of N100 million to the country’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, in recognition of their historic triumph at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco.
The donation was announced by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during plenary on Tuesday, following a motion moved by Sen. Abdul Ningi (ADC, Bauchi Central), seeking the Senate’s recognition and commendation of the team’s outstanding achievement.
Moving the motion, Ningi described the Flamingos’ victory as a landmark accomplishment, noting that the young Nigerian players had achieved what several other national teams had struggled to accomplish.
He said the triumph was particularly remarkable considering the limited expectations surrounding the team before the competition.
The senator, however, expressed concern over what he described as inadequate publicity and national recognition for the players, stressing that they deserved greater appreciation for bringing honour to Nigeria and Africa.
He also regretted the insufficient official reception accorded the team upon their return to the country.
Seconding the motion, Sen Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) praised the Flamingos for defeating Japan in the final, describing their performance as a demonstration of the determination, resilience and immense potential of Nigerian youths.
Oshiomhole urged Nigerians to celebrate the country’s achievements rather than concentrate solely on its challenges.
He also appealed to the Senate leadership to provide financial support for the players, particularly to assist with their educational pursuits alongside their football careers.
Adopting the motion, the Senate congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his support for sports development, Nigerians on the historic victory, and the leadership of the National Sports Commission, particularly its Chairman, Shehu Dikko.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the Flamingos’ achievement as a significant milestone for Nigeria and the African continent, noting that the team overcame formidable football nations, including Brazil and Japan, on their way to glory.
He called on the Federal Government to adequately reward the players and urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to sustain the team and invest in their further development for future international competitions.
Akpabio also appealed to wealthy individuals and sports enthusiasts across the country to support the young footballers and encourage more Nigerian youths to embrace sports.
He explained that the N100 million donation by the National Assembly was intended to recognise the players’ exceptional performance and motivate them to continue making the country proud.
The Senate President congratulated the Flamingos, the Senate Committee on Sports and Nigerians at large on the historic accomplishment, urging the relevant authorities to ensure that the players’ success translates into lasting opportunities for their future.