President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s football team, the Flamingos, on their historic victory at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, describing the achievement as a proud moment for Nigeria and African football.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. the President said the Flamingos made history as the first African team to win the tournament after defeating Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Rabat, Morocco.
Tinubu, who received the news upon his return from campaign engagements in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, said the victory had given Nigerians another reason to celebrate the country.
“What wonderful news to return home to! Our young girls have conquered the world and given Nigerians everywhere another reason to celebrate our great country,” the President said.
He commended the players for their courage, discipline, determination and resilience, noting that they had fulfilled their promise to bring the trophy home following their semi-final victory.
According to him, the team’s success demonstrated the importance of teamwork, self-belief and perseverance in achieving greatness.
Tinubu said the victory would inspire millions of young Nigerian girls to pursue their dreams, adding that the achievement had shown that hard work, opportunity and determination could propel them to the highest levels of success.
The President particularly applauded Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, whose goals secured the historic victory, while commending the entire squad for their exceptional teamwork throughout the tournament.
He also congratulated the coaching crew, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their contributions to the team’s success.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in grassroots sports development and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly girls, to discover, nurture and fulfil their potential.
“Today, Nigeria celebrates you. You have written your names in gold, and your country is immensely proud of you,” he said.
