The Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has charged Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, to defeat Japan in their historic FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final and bring the trophy home to Nigeria.
Shaibu expressed confidence in the team’s technical crew, particularly head coach Hakeem Busari, describing the final as a major opportunity for Nigeria to win its first-ever title in the competition.
Key Highlights
- NIS Director-General Philip Shaibu has urged the Flamingos to defeat Japan in the U-17 Women’s World Cup final.
- Shaibu expressed confidence in head coach Hakeem Busari and his technical crew.
- Busari reportedly obtained his initial coaching qualification from the NIS in Lagos in 1999.
- The NIS boss described the final as an opportunity to make history for Nigerian women’s football.
- Shaibu called on Nigerians to support the team with prayers and encouragement.
Shaibu Expresses Confidence in Flamingos Coach
The NIS Director-General said he believes in Busari’s ability to guide the Flamingos to victory, citing the coach’s professional training and background as an alumnus of the institute.
He recalled that Busari obtained his initial coaching qualification from the National Institute for Sports in Lagos in 1999 before returning for higher-level programmes between 2003 and 2006.
According to Shaibu, the coach received his final coaching certificates in October 2006.
“As an alumnus of the NIS, I believe in Coach Busari’s ability and pedigree. He has been properly trained and groomed here, and I have no doubt that he has what it takes to lead the Flamingos to victory,” Shaibu stated.
He added that the institute was proud of Busari’s professional development and contributions to Nigerian football, describing his appointment as head coach of the national team as a source of pride.
NIS DG Calls for National Support
Shaibu described the final against Japan as a historic opportunity for the Flamingos and their technical crew to make their mark in Nigerian football history.
He said a victory would inspire a new generation of female footballers and further strengthen the country’s presence in international women’s football.
Read also:
- Okpebholo Congratulates Flamingos On Historic U-17 World Cup Final Qualification
- Flamingos vs Brazil: Nigeria Target Historic FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Final
- Flamingos Beat Venezuela To Reach U-17 Women’s World Cup Semi-Finals
The NIS boss also called on Nigerians across the country to rally behind the team, urging citizens to offer maximum support and prayers as the players prepare for the decisive encounter.
Shaibu expressed optimism that the Flamingos would rise to the occasion and secure the ultimate prize for Nigeria.
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