President Bola Tinubu and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, on their historic success at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The Flamingos defeated Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Rabat to become the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and claim Nigeria’s maiden title in the competition.
Tinubu described the victory as a proud moment for Nigeria and a landmark achievement for African women’s football.
According to a statement issued by the president’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President said he had followed the team’s progress throughout the tournament and recalled their promise to bring the trophy home after reaching the semi-finals.
“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,” he added.
Tinubu particularly applauded Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, whose goals secured Nigeria’s victory, while commending the entire squad for their teamwork.
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.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in grassroots sports development and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly girls, to discover and fulfil their potential.
Similarly, Obi congratulated the team in a message posted on his X handle, describing their achievement as a moment of immense pride for Nigeria.
The former Anambra State governor praised the Flamingos for their resilience, talent, hard work and determination, saying their performance had earned them a special place in the hearts of Nigerians.
“Thank you for raising our flag high and bringing immense joy to our nation. Your remarkable talent, resilience, hard work and dedication have earned you a special place in the hearts of Nigerians,” Obi said.
He described the victory as evidence of the potential of Nigerian youths to excel internationally when given opportunities to demonstrate their abilities.
Obi also commended the players for their discipline, commitment and perseverance, expressing optimism about the country’s future.
“You have made our nation proud, and we truly appreciate your outstanding efforts. Congratulations, champions!” he added.
The win capped an impressive campaign in which Nigeria recovered from a 2-1 opening defeat to Poland to win five consecutive matches, including victories over defending champions North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil.
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