BY VICTOR OSOWOCHI – In celebration of the breathtaking triumph that has ignited national pride, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has poured out its heart to salute the Flamingos of Nigeria, following their historic ticket to today’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final holding in Morocco.
The Nigerian young amazons did not just book a place in the finals, they rewrote the history books with grit, grace, and an unyielding spirit that captured the soul of the nation.
In a statement filled with maternal pride and professional admiration, NAWOJ lauded the teenage sensation for breaking barriers and proving that the future of Nigerian football is undeniably female.
The statement jointly signed by Hajia Aisha Ibrahim, National Chairperson, NAWOJ and Comrade Wasilah Ladan, National Secretary, described the team’s remarkable journey to the final as a moment of immense national pride, courage, determination and inspiration to Nigerian girls and women across the country.
The statement commended the players, technical crew and coaching staff for their resilience, discipline, teamwork and exceptional commitment, noting that their achievement has demonstrated the strength, talent and competitive spirit of Nigerian female athletes on the global stage.
Particularly, NAWOJ saluted the team’s Head Coach, Hakeem Busari, and his technical crew for providing the leadership and tactical direction that have propelled the young Nigerian stars to this historic stage, stressing that the Flamingos have already won the admiration of millions of Nigerians by reaching the final.
Urging the team not to relent until they achieve the ultimate prize, the Women journalists said: “As you prepare to face Japan in the final, we want you to know that an entire nation is standing firmly behind you. You have made Nigeria proud, and we believe you have what it takes to go all the way.
“Play with confidence, courage, determination and the Nigerian spirit. Give the final your very best, make history and bring the trophy home. The world is watching, and Nigeria is cheering you on.”
The Association further said the Flamingos’ achievement goes beyond football, describing it as a powerful statement about the capacity of young Nigerian girls to excel, break barriers and compete successfully at the highest international level.
Stressing that the Flamingos’ success should encourage greater investment in grassroots sports development, particularly women’s football, while inspiring parents, institutions and government at all levels to provide opportunities for young female talents to thrive, NAWOJ urged Nigerians, corporate organisations, sports enthusiasts and stakeholders to rally behind the team, offering prayers, encouragement and every necessary support as they take on Japan in the decisive encounter.
While expressing confidence that the Flamingos would rise to the occasion, conquer their opponents and return home with the coveted FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy, the Association wished them the very best of luck, saying: “Go, girls! Make history. Bring the Cup Home!”
Flamingos and the technical crew celebrating their historic 3-1 victory over Brazil
