President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, following their historic 2-1 victory over Japan in the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco.
The victory marks a major milestone in Nigerian football history, as the Flamingos become the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, bringing the prestigious global trophy to the continent for the first time.
President Tinubu described the triumph as a proud moment for Nigeria and a landmark achievement for African women’s football.
The President, who received the news upon his return from campaign engagements in Akwa Ibom and Rivers States, said the young Nigerian players had given the nation another reason to celebrate.
In his congratulatory message, Tinubu praised the team’s courage, discipline, determination and fighting spirit, noting that he had followed their progress throughout the competition.
He recalled that after defeating their opponents in the semi-final, the girls had promised to bring the trophy home, a promise they fulfilled with their impressive performance against Japan.
The President said the Flamingos had demonstrated that with hard work, opportunity, teamwork and determination, young Nigerians could achieve greatness on the world stage.
He also described their victory as an inspiration to millions of young Nigerian girls who aspire to excel in sports and other fields of endeavour.
President Tinubu specifically applauded Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, whose goals secured Nigeria’s historic 2-1 victory in the final.
He also commended the entire squad for their outstanding teamwork and resilience, while recognising the contributions of the coaching crew, the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission to the team’s success.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in grassroots sports development and creating more opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly girls, to discover, develop and fulfil their potential.
The Flamingos’ triumph represents more than a football victory. It is a defining moment for Nigerian women’s football and a powerful statement about the potential of young African athletes.
With their historic achievement, the Flamingos have written their names in the record books, inspired a new generation of female footballers and given millions of Nigerians a reason to celebrate.
Nigeria is proud of its champions. The Flamingos have conquered the world and brought home a historic victory.
