Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has celebrated Onyinyechi Opara, a Delta Queens FC player, following Nigeria’s historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Oborevwori said Opara’s contribution to the victorious Flamingos squad had brought pride to Delta State, as Nigeria became the first African country to win the women’s age-grade competition.
The Flamingos defeated Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s final to claim their first-ever title in the competition and make history for African football.
In a congratulatory statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described the victory as a remarkable achievement that had brought honour to Nigeria and the African continent.
He commended the players for their determination, discipline, resilience and fighting spirit, saying their success demonstrated the growing strength of women’s football in Nigeria.
The governor particularly praised Opara, who plays for Delta Queens FC, saying her achievement had continued the state’s tradition of producing outstanding sports talents.
He said Opara had followed in the footsteps of other Deltans who had represented the state and the country with distinction at national and international competitions.
Oborevwori said her involvement in the historic victory showed that young people from Delta could excel when given the right opportunities, encouragement and support.
Nigeria took the lead in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled the advantage two minutes into the second half.
Japan reduced the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but the Nigerian girls held on to secure the historic victory.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment through investment in sporting infrastructure, grassroots talent discovery and programmes to support young athletes.
He urged the Flamingos to remain focused and build on their achievement, saying their success would inspire more Nigerian girls to pursue careers in football and other sporting activities.
Oborevwori wished the team greater success in future competitions, noting that the victory had written a memorable chapter in Nigeria’s football history.
