Shaibu Describes Tinubu’s Reward to Flamingos as Bold Statement on Sports, Youth Devt

The Director-General of Nigeria's National Institute for Sports, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his generous reward of ₦100 million each to Nigeria's U-17 women's national football team, the Flamingos, after their remarkable FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup triumph in Morocco. The monetary gifts were officially disclosed by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during a reception held for the victorious team at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Each player will retain ₦100 million in a trust account to safeguard their financial futures, while the Head Coach, Akeem Busari, and the Technical Crew Members will each receive ₦50 million. Comrade Philip Shaibu lauded the reward as a bold statement on the significance of sports and youth development in Nigeria, stating that it serves as "leadership rewarding excellence" and will motivate grassroots athletes to strive for national recognition.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in his message to the champions, urged them to maintain focus, discipline, and serve as positive ambassadors for Nigeria as they progress in their football careers. The Flamingos made history by defeating Japan 3-1 and becoming the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Rabat, Morocco, just the day prior.

Earlier, the team was promised a ₦100 million donation by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on behalf of the National Assembly's Red Chambers, and they were honored with a special dinner by Premium Trust Bank, who pledged additional financial support.