Flamingos players to receive ₦100m each but must wait until 18

Every member of Nigeria’s U-17 Women’s World Cup-winning Flamingos squad has been awarded ₦100m by President Bola Tinubu, but the players will not be able to access the money until they reach the age of 18.

The rewards were announced at a reception for the team at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday. First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu delivered the President’s message, with the players’ awards to be held as savings certificates in trust through designated banks, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.

Head coach Hakeem Busari has been awarded ₦100m in cash, while each member of his technical crew will receive ₦50m.

The Flamingos secured the historic title by beating Japan 2-1 in the final in Rabat. Their victory made Nigeria the first African side to win the tournament and completed a campaign that produced five records previously unseen by an African team.

‘Nigeria believes in you’

In remarks reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu explained that the players’ rewards would remain protected until they became adults.

The President’s message recognised the contribution of the coaching staff, medical personnel, administrators and the leadership of the National Sports Commission, including Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade.

It also praised the Nigeria Football Federation, together with the parents and guardians who supported the players during their development.

Flamingos captain Harmony Chidi represented the squad at the reception and maintained a measured tone while speaking on behalf of her team-mates.

The decision to place the players’ awards in savings certificates means they will not receive the money immediately, despite the size of the reward. Each player will gain access to the ₦100m only after turning 18.

The arrangement keeps the funds secure while the players remain minors and gives them time to continue their football development before taking control of a life-changing sum.

The payments for the technical staff recognise the role of Busari and his backroom team in guiding Nigeria to the first world title won by an African side at this level.

The next stage will be the delivery of the awards. The Super Falcons only received their $100,000 WAFCON reward this month, 15 months after it was announced. The handling of the Flamingos’ savings certificates and the payments to the coaching staff will therefore be an important part of fulfilling Wednesday’s commitment.

The success in Rabat has also raised hopes that members of the squad can progress to senior international football. Should some of them eventually make the step up to the Super Falcons, the reward would represent not only recognition for their World Cup victory but also an investment in Nigeria’s senior team.