FIFA World Cup: NFF Didn’t Allow me Greet Victorious U-17 Girls—Peter Obi

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2027 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, has accused the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), of preventing him from seeing the members of the Under 17 national football team, the Flamingos, on their return to the country from Morocco, where they beat Japan to lift the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Saturday night.

The team returned to Nigeria on Monday after becoming the first African nation to lift the trophy.

Mr Obi, in a social media post today, lamented about the treatment he received from the federation’s officials, when he sought permission to greet the girls on the victory.

The former Governor of Anambra State expressed worry that political divisions appeared to be becoming more pronounced, warning that personal and political differences should never become reasons to intimidate others or deny them basic courtesy.

“It is deeply troubling to witness the extent of toxic politics into which our nation has descended since 2025. Each year appears to bring further deterioration. This reflects how deeply Nigeria has been affected,” the leading opposition figure wrote.

He recalled that a similar incident occurred on March 25, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he was for the World Cup qualifier.

“The Governor warmly received me and welcomed me at the VIP stand. Following the match, other government officials went to greet the players, but I was again prevented from doing so. I was told by the officials that they would lose their jobs if I proceeded,” he narrated.

Mr Obi noted that, “The new Nigeria we aspire to build must have no room for hostility, intimidation, or discrimination, regardless of political affiliation. It must be a Nigeria in which unity, mutual respect, and our shared humanity take precedence over political differences.”

Earlier, the politician congratulated the Flamingos on their historic triumph at the tournament, thanking them for raising the country’s flag high and bringing immense joy to the nation.

“Your remarkable talent, resilience, hard work and dedication have earned you a special place in the hearts of Nigerians.

“You have made our nation proud, and we truly appreciate your outstanding efforts,” he stated.