Akinwunmi Celebrates Flamingos' Historic U17 World Cup Win

Seyi Akinwunmi, a former first Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation and former Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, commended the Flamingos for their historic victory over Japan in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, making them the first African nation to win the tournament. Akinwunmi credited the success to the reforms of the National Sports Commission (NSC) under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that sports is now viewed as a national asset and a tool for youth empowerment.

He highlighted the importance of proper structure, accountability, and long-term planning in grassroots football, which he believes contributed to the victory. Akinwunmi's vision for youth and girls football, including initiatives like "Let The Children Play" and the NFF/Zenith U15 Women Competition, has been realized with this win.

He praised the NSC's leadership for providing proper camping, friendly matches, and timely allowances for the athletes, asserting that treating athletes with dignity leads to success on the pitch.