Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has congratulated Nigeria's Under-17 women's national football team, the Flamingos, on their historic 2-1 victory over Japan to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco. The Governor described the triumph as a landmark achievement in Nigeria's sporting history. The Flamingos became the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. Nwifuru noted that the team had made the country proud.
The historic victory was secured on Saturday, November 7, 2026. Goals from Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaku in the 47th minute sealed the win. Japan's Fuki Ito scored a late goal in the 80th minute. The Governor applauded Bashiru and Umejiaku for their decisive contributions. He also praised the team's mental strength and competitive maturity for withstanding Japan's late pressure.
Nwifuru's congratulatory message highlighted the significance of the victory. He stated that it had elevated Nigeria and the African continent to a new height in global women's football. The Governor described the players' performance as a demonstration of determination, discipline, courage, and exceptional team spirit. The win is seen as a powerful statement about the capacity of Nigerian youths to excel when given the right opportunities.
The Governor urged governments, sports administrators, and stakeholders to increase investment in grassroots sports development, particularly women's football. He stressed the need to identify, nurture, and support emerging talents across the country. Nwifuru cited Ebonyi State's investment in Abakaliki Football Club as part of efforts to develop sporting talents.
Nwifuru also congratulated President Bola Tinubu, the National Sports Commission, the Nigeria Football Federation, and the technical crew. He appreciated the players, parents, and millions of Nigerian football supporters for their contributions to the team's historic accomplishment. The Governor encouraged the Flamingos to build on their world title.
The Governor encouraged Nigerians to celebrate the victory as a unifying national accomplishment. He believed it could strengthen patriotism, national cohesion, and Nigeria's international reputation. The win is seen as a significant milestone in Nigeria's sporting history.
Key to the team's success was their ability to work together and demonstrate remarkable mental strength. The Governor's call for increased investment in women's football is expected to have a positive impact on the sport's development in Nigeria. The Flamingos' historic win will likely inspire future generations of Nigerian footballers.
Key points
- The Flamingos became the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.
- Governor Nwifuru urged increased investment in grassroots sports development, particularly women's football.
- The team's victory is seen as a powerful statement about the capacity of Nigerian youths to excel in sports.
