The Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, following their historic triumph at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Nigeria defeated Japan 2-1 in the final on Saturday, November 7, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat to claim its first-ever title in the competition.

Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for the Flamingos in the 39th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled their advantage two minutes after the restart. Japan’s Fuki Ito reduced the deficit in the 80th minute, but Nigeria held on to secure the victory.

In her congratulatory message, Musawa described the achievement as a proud moment for Nigeria, a landmark for African women’s football and a triumph of resilience, talent and belief.

"This is more than a trophy. It is a story of young Nigerian girls who refused to give up, who rose after defeat, and who carried the hopes of a continent to the top of the world," she said.

The Flamingos made history as the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Nigeria also became the first African country to win titles in both the men’s and women’s U-17 categories.

The team further set a competition record as the first to lose its opening match and go on to lift the trophy. After suffering a 2-1 defeat to Poland in their first group game, the Nigerian youngsters responded with six consecutive victories to emerge champions.

Musawa specially commended Umejiaku, who won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, and Bashiru for their decisive contributions in the final. She also praised the entire squad for their teamwork, discipline and determination throughout the competition.

The Minister said the Flamingos’ success reflects the creativity, courage and excellence Nigerian youths bring to the global stage, while reaffirming her Ministry’s commitment to celebrating, protecting and promoting the stories of young Nigerians who inspire the nation.

"Our girls have shown the world what Nigeria is made of. We celebrate you today, and we will continue to stand with you," Musawa said.