Tinubu Hails Flamingos’ Historic World Cup Triumph, Celebrates Nigeria’s First African Champions

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, describing the triumph as a proud moment for Nigeria and a landmark achievement for African football.

The victory made the Flamingos the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, marking a historic milestone for Nigerian football and the continent.

President Tinubu, who received the cheering news upon his return from campaign engagements in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, said the young footballers had given Nigerians another reason to celebrate their country.

In a congratulatory message issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the team for demonstrating courage, discipline, determination and the Nigerian spirit of perseverance throughout the tournament.

“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 said.

He recalled following the team’s progress throughout the competition, noting that the players had promised to bring home the trophy after their semi-final victory and had fulfilled that promise with their historic performance against Japan.

According to the President, the Flamingos’ achievement goes beyond winning a football competition, as it provides inspiration to millions of young Nigerian girls aspiring to excel in sports and other fields of endeavour.

He said the team’s success had demonstrated that hard work, opportunity and determination could propel young Nigerians to the highest levels of achievement.

Tinubu particularly applauded Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, whose goals secured Nigeria’s historic victory, while commending the entire squad for their exceptional teamwork and commitment.

He also congratulated the coaching crew, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their contributions to the team’s remarkable success.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in grassroots sports development and creating greater 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 added.