The Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Mobilisation to Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Hon. Frank Ilaboya, has joined millions of Nigerians in congratulating the Flamingos following their victory over Venezuela in the quarter-finals of the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Nigeria secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Venezuela to book a place in the semi-finals, where they will face Brazil on Wednesday.

Reacting to the achievement, Ilaboya said the Flamingos’ performances throughout the tournament had reinforced the importance of identifying and nurturing young talents at the grassroots level in both boys’ and girls’ football.

He stressed that the encouragement given by Governor Okpebholo towards discovering raw talents across Edo State should be extended to the girl child, noting that engaging young girls in constructive activities, particularly sports, could help steer them away from societal vices.

Ilaboya commended the governor for establishing a specialised department for grassroots sports development, adding that his responsibility was to change the narrative by reaching communities across the state in search of talents capable of making Edo State and Nigeria proud.

“This opportunity created by His Excellency for grassroots sports department must be fully extended to the girl child by engaging them early through constructive sports activities,” said the former Edo State Football Association chairman.

“We are putting together a comprehensive programme that will bring Edo State back to her dominance in age-grade tournaments.”

The Nigerian U-17 girls have enjoyed an impressive campaign in Morocco, including a 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea in the group stage. Their quarter-final success against Venezuela has further strengthened hopes of a successful title challenge.

With Brazil standing between the Flamingos and a place in the final, Ilaboya expressed confidence in Nigeria’s chances of progressing.

“With what we have seen of these girls so far, defeating Brazil is not impossible. These young girls have exhibited strong character, resilience and great determination and these are the ingredients of Champions.

“This is why I am confident of victory over the Samba Girls come on Wednesday. If they put up the same scintillating performance displayed against the defending Champions, North Korea, who they brushed aside 3-1, I can see Brazil falling,” he added.