Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, the Chairman of the Nigerian Football Federation’s Youth Committee and head of the Nigerian delegation to Lome, expressed pure joy and pride as Nigeria’s Flying Eagles clinched the WAFU U20 title with a 2-1 victory over Ghana.
The electrifying game, held on Wednesday night, saw a spirited performance from both teams, but ultimately, it was Nigeria’s grit and skill, especially through slippery forward Kparobo Arierhi, who netted two crucial goals, that made the difference.
As the final whistle blew, Majekodunmi’s emotions were evident.
“If you could see me during the game, the pressure was just too much,” he told Sports 247 in a post-match interview, his voice filled with pride.
“But I must say thank God we came out victorious. This is a collective effort—from the coach, the players, our president, the board members, and the entire Nigeria.
Everybody gave it all, and this victory is a collective victory.”
Majekodunmi credited the team’s success to the united leadership of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), commending NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau and General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi.
He praised Gusau’s leadership, emphasizing that the triumph was built on the foundational support and encouragement from all levels of the organization.
“I want to thank our able president for his leadership style,” he added.
The Nigerian side’s victory secured their spot alongside Ghana to represent the WAFU B region at next year’s Africa U20 Cup of Nations in South Africa.
But Majekodunmi’s focus was already turning to future preparation. “It is not time for us to relax.
We need to start preparations on time because we can see that these boys still need more time together.”
In the euphoria of retaining their WAFU U20 title, Majekodunmi’s words captured a deep sense of responsibility, as he looked toward shaping a stronger, more resilient team for the challenges ahead.
“This win means so much to us as a nation,” he concluded, “but the work is far from over.”
