According to a congratulatory message shared on his verified Instagram page, @pastorumoeno, Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno celebrated Akwa Ibom-born footballer Mary Dunstan Akpan and Nigeria's Under-17 women's national team, the Flamingos, following their historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco.

In his statement, the governor praised Mary Dunstan Akpan for demonstrating excellence, determination, and resilience throughout the tournament, highlighting her memorable goal against Mexico as a source of immense pride for Akwa Ibom State. He also extended commendations to her teammates, the coaching crew, and two Akwa Ibom indigenes on the backroom staff, Team Secretary Arit Robert Effiong and Team Physiotherapist Charity Etim Godwin, for their contributions to the triumph.

Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration's commitment to sustained investment in sports development, talent discovery, and youth empowerment under the ARISE Agenda to help young citizens realise their full potential.

Following the publication, sports enthusiasts, citizens of Akwa Ibom, and social media users joined in celebrating the Flamingos' landmark achievement as the first African team to lift the global trophy.