Sports
NIGERIA’s Ambassador to Japan, H.E. Oluwawimika Ayotunwa Olumilua, has congratulated Nigerians on the historic victory of the country’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, while commending President Bola Tinubu for his support for sports development.
The Flamingos defeated Japan 2-1 in the final of the competition in Rabat, Morocco, to emerge world champions, becoming the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s Women’s World Cup.
Goals from Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaka in the 47th minute secured Nigeria’s historic victory.
In a congratulatory message issued through the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Tokyo, Olumilua described the triumph as a demonstration of resilience, discipline and the Nigerian spirit.
She noted that the team had overcome the disappointment of losing its opening match to fight its way to the championship, describing the achievement as a proud moment for the country.
The ambassador also highlighted Nigeria’s distinction as the first African country to win titles in both the men’s and women’s U-17 categories.
Olumilua congratulated the players, the technical crew led by Coach Akeem Busari, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Nigerians who supported the team throughout the competition.
She particularly commended President Tinubu for his support, encouragement and commitment to sports development, describing his backing as a major source of strength that propelled the team to the historic achievement.
“I wish to specially appreciate His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his huge support, encouragement, and fatherly commitment to the team and to sports development in Nigeria,” she said.
According to her, the victory represents more than a football achievement, as it reinforces Nigeria’s capacity to overcome challenges and excel on the global stage.
The ambassador further said the Nigerian Embassy in Tokyo shared the excitement of the victory with Japan and the wider diplomatic community, describing the moment as one to celebrate with humility, friendship and national pride.
She congratulated Nigerians and the Flamingos on bringing the country international recognition through their historic performance.
M.P
Tags: