By Reen Chidi
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, on their historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, describing the feat as a landmark achievement for Nigerian and African football.
The Flamingos clinched the title on Saturday, November 7, 2026, after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final to become the first Nigerian team to win the competition. The triumph also made Nigeria the first African country to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori praised the players for their exceptional commitment, discipline, determination and resilience throughout the tournament.
He described their victory as a source of national pride, noting that it had further demonstrated Nigeria’s immense sporting potential and the steady progress of women’s football in the country.
The governor also singled out Onyinyechi Opara, a Delta Queens FC player and member of the victorious squad, for special recognition, describing her participation in the historic achievement as a moment of pride for Delta State.
According to him, Opara’s accomplishment reflects the state’s longstanding reputation for producing outstanding athletes who have continued to distinguish themselves at national and international sporting competitions.
Oborevwori noted that the young footballer’s contribution to Nigeria’s success underscored the capacity of Delta youths to excel on the global stage when provided with the necessary opportunities, encouragement and institutional support.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening sports development through investment in sporting infrastructure, grassroots talent identification and youth-focused programmes designed to nurture emerging athletes.
The governor further encouraged the Flamingos to sustain their winning mentality, remain focused and build on the historic achievement, expressing confidence that their success would inspire more Nigerian girls to pursue careers in football and other sporting disciplines.
He wished the team continued success in future competitions, adding that their triumph had secured a special place in Nigeria’s sporting history and brought honour to the nation and the African continent.
