President Tinubu Celebrates Flamingos’ U-17 World Cup Win Over Japan

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, after their impressive 2-1 victory against Japan in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup held in Morocco on Saturday.

The President’s message came shortly after Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, was seen cheering for the team from her home, chanting “Nigeria! Nigeria!” as the players fought for the trophy.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed pride in the team’s achievement. 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.”

Tinubu described the victory as a significant moment for Nigeria and a landmark achievement for African women’s football. He noted that he had followed the team’s journey throughout the tournament and recalled their promise to bring home the trophy after their semi-final win.

The President praised the players for their courage and teamwork, particularly highlighting Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, who scored the goals that secured the victory. He also commended the coaching staff and the Nigeria Football Federation for their support.

The Flamingos made history by becoming the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and the first to claim titles in both men’s and women’s U-17 categories. They also set a record by being the first team to lose their opening match and still win the title, having lost to Poland earlier in the group stage.

Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to investing in grassroots sports development, aiming to create more opportunities for young Nigerians, especially girls, to pursue their dreams.