Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has hosted the national U-17 women’s football team, the Flamingos, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja following their historic victory at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Mrs Tinubu received the players on Wednesday on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, alongside the wife of the Vice-President, Nana Shettima, and other government officials.
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During the reception, the First Lady presented bouquets of flowers to the players in recognition of their achievement.
The Flamingos secured the title on Saturday after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final held in Rabat, becoming the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria took the lead through Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku extended the advantage shortly after the restart.
Japan reduced the deficit late in the encounter through Fuki Ito, but the Nigerian girls held on to secure the historic triumph.
President Tinubu had earlier congratulated the team, describing their achievement as a major milestone for Nigeria and African women’s football.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the players for their determination, discipline and courage.
“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,” he said.
He also singled out Bashiru and Umejiaku for their goals, saying the players had written their names in gold.
The First Lady had equally celebrated the team’s success, attributing the victory to resilience, dedication and collective effort.
She noted that the Flamingos recovered from a difficult start to win six consecutive matches and claim the trophy.
“Through your team spirit, dedication and hard work, Nigeria is again the toast of the world,” Mrs Tinubu said.
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Wednesday’s reception at the Presidential Villa added to the national recognition of the young footballers following their historic achievement.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
