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According to a report by Punch Newspaper on Wednesday November 11, 2026, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday received the Flamingos at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, celebrating the under-17 women’s team after their historic victory at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Mrs Tinubu received the players on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. The reception was also attended by Nana Shettima, wife of Vice-President Kashim Shettima, and other government officials.
During the event, the First Lady presented bouquets of flowers to the players in recognition of their achievement.
The Flamingos made history on Saturday by defeating Japan 2-1 in the final in Rabat, becoming the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria took the lead in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru. Oluebube Umejiaku extended the advantage shortly after the restart, putting the Flamingos two goals ahead.
Japan fought back late in the match, with Fuki Ito scoring to narrow the deficit. The Nigerian team, however, held on to secure the win and the championship.
The victory marked a landmark achievement for Nigerian women’s football and African football more broadly, as no African nation had previously claimed the tournament title.
The team’s success followed a campaign that culminated in the final against Japan, a side that had also been among the competition’s strongest contenders.
The Flamingos’ ability to protect their lead in the closing stages proved decisive as they secured the trophy.
The reception at the Presidential Villa offered an opportunity for the players to be recognized by senior government figures after returning from the tournament.
Mrs Tinubu’s presentation of flowers formed part of the welcome for the champions.
The team represents Nigeria at the under-17 level, and its triumph is expected to draw attention to the development of women’s football and the country’s youth talent.
The result also provides a significant milestone for the players, coaches and officials who contributed to the campaign.
The First Lady received the side alongside the vice-president’s wife and government representatives.