Following the impressive performance of Nigeria's U-17 female football team, the Flamingos, on the global stage, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called on the Federal Government to maintain consistent financial support for women's sports.
In an official release issued on Sunday, the Ogun State branch of the association expressed that the squad's display of bravery and tactical discipline highlights the immense capabilities of the Nigerian girl-child when provided with adequate backing and opportunities.
What did NAWOJ say about the achievement?
Morenikeji Sobaloju, the Chairperson of the Ogun State chapter, emphasized that the team's milestone stretches far beyond the game of football. She pointed out that continuous backing for female sports participation serves as a vital instrument for driving gender parity, fostering self-esteem, and uplifting young women across the country.
While acknowledging the ongoing initiatives by the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission to restructure the country's sports landscape, NAWOJ stressed that authorities must move past mere celebrations of victory.
The association pressed for upgraded training facilities, enhanced welfare packages for both players and technical crews, and elevated budgetary allocation for grassroots sports development within educational institutions and local communities, where numerous talented young girls still lack proper exposure.
Furthermore, the organization appealed to media practitioners to provide female athletes with steady and reliable reportage rather than limiting coverage solely to moments of major triumphs.
“The Flamingos have once again demonstrated that talent is abundant in Nigeria. What is required is a deliberate and sustainable system that discovers, nurtures and rewards such talent," the association stated.
"NAWOJ, Ogun State Chapter, therefore calls for increased investment in grassroots sports development, particularly in schools and communities, where many talented young girls remain undiscovered due to inadequate facilities, limited funding and insufficient institutional support,” the statement concluded.