Big Celebration For Flamingos As Akpabio Announces ₦100 Million Cash Gift

The Nigerian Senate has donated ₦100 million to the country’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, in recognition of their historic triumph at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the financial reward during plenary on Tuesday, November 10, following the consideration of a motion sponsored by Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central, who called for national recognition of the team’s remarkable achievement.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Ningi described the Flamingos’ victory as a historic accomplishment, noting that the young footballers had achieved something that several other Nigerian national teams had struggled to accomplish.

The lawmaker, however, expressed concern over what he considered inadequate publicity and recognition for the players, particularly following their return to Nigeria after winning the tournament.

Supporting the motion, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, praised the Flamingos for defeating Japan in the final to secure the prestigious trophy.

Oshiomhole described the achievement as evidence of the determination, resilience and enormous potential of Nigerian youths. He also urged Nigerians to celebrate the country’s successes rather than concentrate exclusively on its challenges.

The former Edo State governor further appealed to the Senate leadership to provide financial assistance to the players, particularly to support their educational pursuits alongside their football careers.

Following deliberations, the Senate adopted the motion and congratulated President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s support for sports development. It also commended the National Sports Commission and its chairman, Shehu Dikko, for their contributions to the country’s sporting progress.

The lawmakers equally urged the Federal Government to provide appropriate rewards and compensation for the young footballers in recognition of their outstanding performance.

Speaking after the adoption of the motion, Akpabio described the Flamingos’ victory as a significant milestone for Nigeria and the African continent, highlighting their impressive victories over established football nations, including Brazil and Japan, on their journey to winning the competition.

The Senate President called on the Federal Government to adequately reward the players and urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to retain the squad and invest in developing their footballing abilities.

He stressed the importance of keeping the young talents together to ensure they receive the necessary guidance and opportunities to progress to higher levels of international football.

Akpabio also appealed to wealthy Nigerians, business leaders and sports enthusiasts to support the players and encourage more young people across the country to embrace sporting activities.

He explained that the ₦100 million donation from the National Assembly was intended to recognise the Flamingos’ remarkable achievement and motivate them to continue making Nigeria proud on the international stage.