Gov Okpebholo’s Aide Congratulates Flamingos, Tips Nigeria To Beat Brazil
Gov Okpebholo’s Aide Congratulates Flamingos, Tips Nigeria To Beat Brazil
The Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Mobilization to the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Hon. Frank Ilaboya, has joined millions of Nigerians in congratulating the Flamingos on their victory over Venezuela in the quarter-finals of the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The Nigerian girls edged Venezuela 1-0 in a tense encounter on Sunday night to book a place against Brazil in the semi-finals on Wednesday.
Hon. Ilaboya said the Flamingos’ performance so far in the tournament reinforces the need to scout for young talents from the grassroots, both in the boys’ and girls’ categories.
According to him, the encouragement given by Governor Okpebholo to scout for raw talents at the grassroots in Edo State must be extended to the girl-child, stressing that diverting girls away from societal vices is only possible when they are engaged at a younger age, especially through sports.
Hon. Ilaboya, while commending Gov. Okpebholo for his foresight in creating a specialized department for grassroots sports, added that his responsibility is to change the narrative by going into the nooks and crannies of the state to scout for talents that will make Edo State and the nation proud.
‘This opportunity created by His Excellency for the grassroots sports department must be fully extended to the girl-child by engaging them early through constructive sports activities,’ the one-time Chairman of the Edo State Football Association said.
‘We are putting together a comprehensive programme that will bring Edo State back to her dominance in age-grade tournaments.’
The Nigerian U-17 girls have had a great run in the tournament, beating defending champions North Korea 3-1 in the group stage, and their hard-won victory against Venezuela is a pointer that they have what it takes to be champions.
As they face Brazil in another testy semi-final clash on Wednesday, Hon. Ilaboya expressed confidence of another victory for Nigeria.
‘With what we have seen of these girls so far, defeating Brazil is not impossible. These young girls have exhibited strong character, resilience and great determination and these are the ingredients of champions.
‘This is why I am confident of victory over the Samba Girls on Wednesday. If they put up the same scintillating performance displayed against the defending champions, North Korea, who they brushed aside 3-1, I can see Brazil falling,’ he added.
