Tinubu, Akpabio, Obi, Okpebholo Celebrate Flamingos’ Historic World Cup Triumph

President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo have congratulated Nigeria’s Flamingos following their historic victory at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Nigerian girls defeated Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final in Rabat, Morocco, to become the first African country to win the competition.

The triumph attracted widespread celebrations across the country, with political leaders praising the players for their determination, discipline and outstanding performance.

The celebration also reached the residence of the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, who joined in the excitement. A video circulating online showed her singing and dancing while seated as she celebrated the team’s achievement.

The Flamingos secured the historic victory through goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku in the 39th and 47th minutes. Japan’s Fuki Ito pulled one back in the 80th minute but could not prevent Nigeria from claiming the trophy.

The victory capped an impressive campaign for the Nigerian side, who recovered from an opening defeat to Poland to win five consecutive matches.

They defeated defending champions North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil before overcoming Japan in the final.

In a congratulatory statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the victory as a proud moment for Nigeria.

The President said the players had displayed courage, discipline and determination, reflecting the resilience associated with the Nigerian spirit.

Tinubu, who received news of the triumph after returning from campaign engagements in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, said the team had fulfilled its promise to bring the trophy home.

He recalled following their progress throughout the tournament, particularly their semi-final victory, after which the players promised to win the competition.

The President said their achievement would inspire millions of Nigerian girls seeking opportunities to excel in sports and other fields.

He added that their success demonstrated how talent, hard work and determination could produce outstanding results when young people receive adequate support.

Tinubu specifically praised Bashiru and Umejiaku for their decisive goals. He also commended the entire squad, coaching crew, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and National Sports Commission (NSC).

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots sports development and creating more opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly girls, to discover their talents.

Similarly, Akpabio described the players as Nigeria’s “Golden Girls”, saying their victory had brought immense honour to the country.

In a congratulatory message issued by his Media Office and signed by his Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Anietie Ekong, the Senate President said the achievement extended beyond Nigerian football.

He noted that the triumph represented a landmark moment for African sports, as Nigeria became the continent’s first winner of the competition.

Akpabio praised the players for their talent, teamwork, discipline and fighting spirit, while acknowledging the contributions of their coaches and technical crew.

He said the victory had inspired millions of young girls across Africa to believe in their abilities and pursue their ambitions.

The Senate President added that the players had not only won a trophy but also earned the admiration of Nigerians through their outstanding performance.

He congratulated everyone who contributed to the historic success, declaring that the world had heard Nigeria’s victory song.

Also reacting, former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, described the triumph as evidence of the enormous potential of Nigerian youths.

In a congratulatory message on his X handle, Obi praised the Flamingos for their resilience, hard work, discipline and commitment throughout the competition.

He said the players had earned a special place in the hearts of Nigerians by raising the country’s flag on the global stage.

According to him, their achievement showed what young Nigerians could accomplish when they receive opportunities to develop their talents.

Obi expressed hope that the victory would encourage other young people to pursue excellence and remain committed to their ambitions.

Meanwhile, Okpebholo commended the Flamingos for overcoming strong opponents and maintaining the discipline and teamwork required to win the championship.

The Edo governor said their achievement highlighted the growing potential of women’s football in Nigeria and should encourage more girls to pursue careers in sports.

He also praised the coaches, technical crew and support staff for their dedication, noting that the victory demonstrated what Nigerian youths could achieve with hard work and adequate support.

Okpebholo urged the players to sustain their winning mentality and remain worthy ambassadors of the country.

He congratulated the NFF and Nigerians on the historic achievement, expressing hope that the triumph would usher in more international successes for the country’s young female footballers.