President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s Flamingos following their historic 2-1 victory over Japan in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final in Rabat, Morocco, describing the achievement as a proud moment for Nigeria and a landmark victory for African women’s football.
The President celebrated the young Nigerian footballers for becoming the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after their impressive performance against Japan on Saturday.
According to a statement from the Presidency, Tinubu received the cheering news upon his return from campaign engagements in Akwa Ibom and Rivers States.
The President described the Flamingos’ maiden triumph as a remarkable achievement that has brought pride and joy to Nigerians at home and abroad.
Tinubu Praises Flamingos for Making Nigeria Proud
In his congratulatory message, President Tinubu applauded the players for their courage, discipline, determination and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
He said:
”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.
”To our gallant Flamingos, I say congratulations. You have shown courage, discipline, determination and the Nigerian spirit of never giving up.
“I followed your journey throughout this tournament, and after your semi-final victory, you promised to bring the trophy home. Today, you have kept that promise. You believed in yourselves, fought for one another and carried our nation’s flag to the very top of the world.
“Your victory is an inspiration to millions of young Nigerian girls who dream of achieving greatness. You have shown them that with hard work, opportunity and determination, they too can reach the highest levels of achievement.
”Today, Nigeria celebrates you. You have written your names in gold, and your country is immensely proud of you.”
President Tinubu Commends Bashiru and Umejiaku
The Nigerian leader specifically praised Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, whose goals secured the Flamingos’ historic 2-1 victory over Japan.
Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute with an effort from distance before Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage shortly after the restart in the 47th minute.
Japan’s Fuki Ito pulled one goal back in the 80th minute, but the Nigerian girls held on to secure a memorable victory and claim the world title.
President Tinubu also commended the entire squad for their exceptional teamwork and outstanding performances throughout the competition.
Tinubu Congratulates Flamingos’ Coaches, NFF and NSC
Beyond the players, President Tinubu extended his congratulations to the coaching crew, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their contributions to the team’s historic success.
He acknowledged the collective efforts behind Nigeria’s triumph, recognising the importance of effective coaching, institutional support and commitment to developing young sporting talents.
The Flamingos’ achievement represents a significant milestone for Nigerian football, particularly women’s football, and further strengthens the country’s reputation in international youth competitions.
President Reaffirms Commitment to Grassroots Sports Development
President Tinubu used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to investing in grassroots sports development and creating more opportunities for young Nigerians to discover and develop their talents.
He particularly emphasised the importance of expanding opportunities for girls to nurture their abilities and achieve their full potential in sports and other fields.
The President noted that the Flamingos’ success would serve as an inspiration to millions of young Nigerian girls who aspire to compete and excel on the international stage.
Concluding his message, Tinubu congratulated the team once again, saying:
”Congratulations once again, Flamingos. Thank you for making Nigeria proud.”
Flamingos’ Historic Victory Marks New Era for African Women’s Football
Nigeria’s victory over Japan is more than just another international football achievement. It represents a historic breakthrough for African women’s football, with the Flamingos becoming the first African women’s national team to win a FIFA World Cup title.
The triumph has attracted national attention and celebrations, with President Tinubu joining Nigerians in applauding the young champions for their determination and outstanding achievement.
For the players, the coaching crew and Nigerian football supporters, the historic victory will remain a defining moment and a source of inspiration for future generations.
The Flamingos have conquered the world, made Nigeria proud and written a remarkable new chapter in African football history.
