Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami has sent a message to President Bola Tinubu.
He asked Tinubu to reward 17-year-old Nafisa Abdullah Aminu, who recently won a global English competition in the UK, the same way the government rewarded the Super Falcons and D’Tigress for their victories.
Pantami made the call on his verified X handle on Tuesday.
He urged the federal government to match the prizes given to the Super Falcons and D’Tigress with similar recognition for the young girl.
According to the former minister, Nafisa, a student of Nigerian Tulip International College (NTIC) in Yobe State, beat over 20,000 participants from 69 countries including native English-speaking nations to win at the 2025 TeenEagle Global Finals in the United Kingdom.
“Nafisa deserves recognition: $100,000, a flat, and an Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON),” Pantami wrote.
He praised the teenager’s dedication, natural talent, and the support she received from her school and parents. He said her victory is proof that Nigerian students can excel globally if given the right environment.
Pantami compared Nafisa’s achievement to recent sports triumphs, such as the Super Falcons’ Women’s Africa Cup win and D’Tigress’ historic fifth AfroBasket title. Both teams received cash prizes, houses, and national honours.
“What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Nafisa and her English teacher deserve the same kind of reward,” Pantami added.
He stressed the importance of valuing education as a foundation for national development.
The prizes given to the female sports stars for their achievements sparked mixed reactions online.
While some people praised the government for rewarding success, others criticised it, calling the move a case of misplaced priorities.
