Mark Aba
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, following their historic triumph at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The Flamingos made history on Saturday after defeating Japan 2–1 in the final of the tournament in Rabat, Morocco, to become the first African team to win the prestigious competition.
Kalu described the victory as a landmark achievement for Nigerian football and a moment of immense national pride, noting that it had demonstrated the talent, resilience and competitive spirit of Nigerian female footballers on the global stage.
In a congratulatory statement issued on Sunday, the Deputy Speaker said the team had not only written their names in the history books but had also raised Nigeria’s and Africa’s flags high through their outstanding performance.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our Flamingos for etching their names in the history books by emerging as champions of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and becoming the first African team to win the prestigious tournament.
“This remarkable achievement reflects the resilience, discipline and determination that define the Nigerian spirit. Our girls have not only made Nigeria proud but have also raised Africa’s flag high on the global stage.
“As a nation, we celebrate this historic victory and the inspiring journey that brought you to this moment of glory. You have shown a new generation of young Nigerians that with hard work, courage and belief, there are no limits to what can be achieved,” he said.
Kalu further noted that the team’s success underscored the enormous potential of Nigerian youths and the need to create more opportunities for young people to excel in sports and other fields.
He said the victory should inspire greater investment in youth development and encourage upcoming athletes to pursue their dreams with determination.
“Your triumph is a powerful reminder of the immense potential of Nigerian youths and the importance of creating opportunities for them to excel in sports and other fields of human endeavour.
“Congratulations, champions! Nigeria is proud of you,” he added.
The Deputy Speaker wished the team continued success, urging the players to sustain their winning mentality and remain worthy ambassadors of Nigeria in future international competitions.