Hon. Princess Gloria Akobundu, PhD, fsi, Secretary of Faith-Based Mobilisation (Christians), APC Presidential Campaign Council (APC PCC), has warmly eulogized the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for the generous and forward-looking reward of ₦100 million to each member of the victorious Nigeria U-17 Women’s National Team, the Flamingos and ₦ 50 million each to the technical crew.
The young champions made history on Saturday, 7 November 2026, by defeating Japan 2-1 in the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco, becoming the first African nation and the first African women’s team at any level to win a FIFA World Cup title.
Speaking on the development, Hon. Akobundu described the gesture, announced by the First Lady on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at a presidential reception in Abuja on Wednesday, as a powerful demonstration of motherly care, national pride, and strategic investment in the future of Nigerian girl-child athletes.
“Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has once again shown why she is fondly regarded as a true mother of the nation,” Akobundu stated. “By ensuring that each of these young heroines receives a ₦100 million savings certificate held in trust for their future, she has not only celebrated their historic achievement but also protected and secured their tomorrow. This is leadership with heart, vision, and responsibility.”
She noted that the structured nature of the reward designed as five-year Federal Government savings bonds that will generate regular interest while preserving the principal until the players come of age reflects deep wisdom and genuine concern for the well-being of the girls beyond the immediate excitement of victory.
Hon. Akobundu further praised the First Lady for using the occasion to counsel the Flamingos to remain focused, humble, and disciplined, values she said are essential for sustaining excellence both on and off the field.
“This is more than a cash gift; it is an empowerment tool and a vote of confidence in the limitless potential of Nigerian girls,” she added. “Senator Oluremi Tinubu continues to inspire women and young people across the country. We celebrate her, we thank her, and we urge our young champions to keep soaring.”
The APC PCC Faith-Based Mobilisation Secretary also extended congratulations to the entire Flamingos squad, Head Coach Akeem Busari, the technical crew, the Nigeria Football Federation, and all stakeholders who contributed to the landmark triumph that has brought immense glory to Nigeria and the African continent.
