The Lagos government hosted a special dinner on Sunday to honour Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, following their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup triumph.

Tagged ‘Wings of Gold: Lagos Honours the U-17 Flamingos, World Champions 2026’, the event celebrated the team’s achievement and recognised the players’ contributions to Nigerian football.

The reception also highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent and investing in grassroots sports development.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu congratulated the team and urged the players to remain focused, disciplined and committed to achieving greater heights.

He described sports as a powerful tool for youth development, noting that it promoted mental strength, discipline and confidence.

Mr Sanwo-Olu said winning the World Cup was only the beginning of the players’ journey, urging them not to rest on their achievements.

“Do not think you have reached the highest point. You are just starting your journey, so you must continue to work harder, stay focused and remain disciplined,” he said.

He commended the coaches, technical crew and medical team for their dedication and contributions to the team’s success.

The governor also urged the players to draw inspiration from Nigerian football legends present at the event. He said sustaining success required discipline, commitment and dedication.

Rodiat Yusuf, a defender in the Flamingos squad, thanked the Lagos Government for organising the reception.

Ms Yusuf noted representing Lagos at the National Youth Games last year, where the state emerged overall winner. She thanked Mr Sanwo-Olu’s hospitality and encouragement, describing him as both a good host and a father figure.

“Thank you for making this a remarkable moment that will remain in our memories,” she said.

She also commended the governor’s commitment to supporting young people and encouraging them to pursue their ambitions.

Bukola Olopade, the director-general of the National Sports Commission, commended Lagos for its investment in grassroots sports development. He praised the state government, coaches and sports officials for nurturing athletes who continued to win laurels for Nigeria.

Mr Olopade said the hard work involved in sports development was often overlooked, despite the criticism faced by those responsible for nurturing athletes.

“People don’t see the hard work that goes into putting this together. We get the knocks, insults and criticism, but nobody sees the hard work,” he said.

He said Lagos had produced athletes excelling in football, swimming, tennis and boxing. According to him, several athletes aged between 12 and 18 had benefited from the state’s grassroots sports development system.

He cited the achievements of Nigerian athletes in international competitions, including a swimmer who finished sixth in the world.

Mr Olopade said he attended the event to recognise the Lagos government’s contributions to national sports development.

“I came here tonight to honour you for the great work you are doing for Nigeria and Lagos state,” he said.

The Flamingos captain, Harmony Chidi, also thanked the state government for its support and hospitality.

Speaking on behalf of the players, coaches and technical crew, Ms Chidi thanked the organisers for their encouragement and kindness.

“We sincerely appreciate your kindness, love and support. We pray that God grants you your heart’s desires,” she said.

She assured Nigerians that the team would continue working hard to make the country proud.

(NAN)