President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, to maintain their fighting spirit and make history by winning the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup when they face Japan in Saturday’s final.
The President gave the charge while congratulating the team on their historic qualification for the final following a commanding 3-1 victory over Brazil in Wednesday’s semi-final.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the achievement as remarkable, saying it had brought immense pride and joy to millions of Nigerians at home and abroad.
‘I encourage you to approach the final with the same fighting spirit and belief that have brought you this far. I have confidence in your ability to make history by winning the coveted world title’, the President said.
He urged Nigerians to rally behind the young players as they prepare for the decisive encounter, assuring the team of the nation’s prayers, goodwill and unwavering support.
‘I call on all Nigerians to rally behind the young ambassadors of the nation, whose achievements continue to showcase Nigeria’s sporting excellence and inspire a new generation of girls to pursue their dreams uninhibited.
‘Once again, Nigeria is proud of you. Go for the trophy, Flamingos!’ he added.
The Flamingos booked their maiden appearance in the competition’s final with an emphatic second-half display against Brazil, scoring three times before conceding a late consolation goal.
After a goalless first half, Queen Joseph broke the deadlock in the 56th minute, turning home Oluwakemi Adegubyi’s assist to put Nigeria ahead.
Joseph then provided the assist for Awawu Bashiru to double the lead in the 71st minute before the forward completed her brace nine minutes later, converting Oluebube Umejiaku’s delivery to give Nigeria a commanding 3-0 advantage.
Brazil pulled one back in the 89th minute through Greise Kelly, who was set up by Yasmin Queiroz, but the Flamingos held on to secure a memorable victory.
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has also congratulated the Flamingos on their historic qualification, urging the team to maintain their focus ahead of Saturday’s final against Japan.
Okpebholo described the 3-1 victory over Brazil as a remarkable achievement, praising the players for their determination, tactical discipline, teamwork and fighting spirit throughout the competition.
He particularly commended goalscorers Queen Joseph and Awawu Bashiru for their contributions, while applauding the entire squad and technical crew for their commitment and dedication.
The governor expressed confidence in the team’s ability to win the title, assuring the players of the support of Nigerians, particularly the people of Edo State, as they pursue their maiden U-17 Women’s World Cup crown.
‘This is to congratulate Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, on their historic qualification for the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
‘The team demonstrated the resilience and competitive spirit that Nigerians are proud of, noting that their achievement has brought joy and renewed hope to football fans across the country’, he added.
