By Palma Ileye
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, following their historic 2-1 victory over Japan in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Nigeria defeated Japan on Saturday, November 7, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat to emerge champions of the competition for the first time.
Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 39th minute, while Oluebube Umejiaku extended the lead two minutes into the second half. Japan’s Fuki Ito reduced the deficit in the 80th minute, but the Flamingos held on to secure the historic victory.
Musawa in a congratulatory message, issued by Nneka Ikem Anibeze, SA Media and Publicity to the Minister of FMACCE, described the triumph as a proud moment for Nigeria and a landmark achievement for African women’s football, noting that it reflected resilience, talent and determination.
“This is more than a trophy. It is a story of young Nigerian girls who refused to give up, who rose after defeat, and who carried the hopes of a continent to the top of the world,” she said.
The Minister noted that the Flamingos had made history as the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, as well as the first African country to win titles in both the men’s and women’s U-17 categories.
She also highlighted the team’s remarkable comeback, having lost their opening group-stage match 2-1 to Poland before recording six consecutive victories to claim the trophy.
Musawa particularly commended Umejiaku, who won the tournament’s Golden Ball award as its best player, and Bashiru for their decisive contributions in the final.
She also praised the entire squad for their teamwork, discipline and determination throughout the competition.
According to her, the victory demonstrates the creativity, courage and excellence of Nigerian youths on the global stage.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to celebrating, protecting and promoting the achievements of young Nigerians whose accomplishments inspire national pride.
“Our girls have shown the world what Nigeria is made of. We celebrate you today, and we will continue to stand with you,” Musawa said.
