Nigeria President Tinubu urges Flamingos to win historic U-17 Women's World Cup final

Nigeria’s head of state, Bola Tinubu, has urged the U-17 women’s national football side, known as the Flamingos, to claim victory in the concluding match of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The President urged the squad to defeat Japan in a match scheduled for Saturday in Morocco, aiming to claim Nigeria’s first-ever championship in this specific competition. This directive follows the team’s successful progression to the final stage of the tournament, a milestone that has generated significant national attention.

Bayo Onanuga, who serves as the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, disseminated the leader’s remarks via a public statement on Thursday. In the communication, Tinubu expressed pride in the team’s performance and encouraged the players to maintain the confidence and determination that led them to this point. He assured the athletes of the unflinching support, prayers, and goodwill of the Nigerian nation as they prepare for the decisive encounter against their Japanese counterparts.

Background

The Flamingos reached the final after a decisive 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-final match held on Wednesday. This victory represented a landmark occasion for football in Nigeria and across Africa, as the squad became the first continental team to advance to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final. Prior to this campaign, the best finish for an African team in this tournament was a third-place position; Nigeria achieved this in 2022, while Ghana secured the same standing in 2012. The current run has therefore surpassed previous continental records for the competition.

According to the official communication, President Tinubu characterized the advancement to the final as an outstanding accomplishment that has generated tremendous happiness among millions of Nigerians residing domestically and in the diaspora. He extended his congratulations not only to the players but also to the coaching crew and all individuals whose hard work contributed to the team’s successful campaign. The head of state emphasized the athletes' status as national representatives, observing that their athletic prowess encourages a new cohort of girls to chase their aspirations freely. He specifically called on all Nigerians to rally behind the team during this crucial phase of the tournament.

Why it matters

The outcome of the final on Saturday will determine whether Nigeria adds a new dimension to its football history by becoming the first African nation to win the U-17 Women’s World Cup. The stakes are high for the players, who are viewed as role models for young girls across the country. The President’s public endorsement underscores the national significance of the event, framing the team’s performance as a showcase of Nigeria’s sporting capabilities. The victory over Brazil in the semi-final has already shifted expectations, with the team now positioned to break new ground in international youth football. The support from the head of state is intended to bolster the players' resolve as they face Japan, a team that has also demonstrated strong form in the tournament.

What happens next

The Flamingos are scheduled to compete against Japan in the decisive game of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup this Saturday. The game will be held in Morocco. Depending on the result, Nigeria will either secure its first title in the competition or finish as runners-up. The President’s statement calls for continued national support for the team ahead of this final fixture.