The Flamingos of Nigeria, champions of the world, were given a special treat in Rabat, Morocco on Saturday night after their historic triumph at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, where they defeated Japan to become the first African team to win the competition.

The team was hosted by the Chairman of National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade for their remarkable achievement. The reception was also attended by the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu, a sponsor of the National Sports Commission.

It was an opportunity to celebrate a group of young players who have made the country proud and delivered a historic moment for Nigerian women’s football. In a further show of appreciation, Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu rewarded the team with a cash gift of $50,000.

It was a welcome gesture for the players and officials, whose hard work, commitment and determination throughout the tournament ultimately brought the trophy home.

There was also good news concerning the outstanding bonuses owed to the team. The Presidency, through the National Sports Commission, facilitated the payment of the Flamingos’ bonuses covering their journey from the preliminary qualifying rounds through to the final match, which they won in spectacular fashion with a 2-1 victory over 2014 champions Japan.