LASU VC CELEBRATES ESTHER STEPHEN AFTER FLAMINGOS’ HISTORIC U-17 WORLD CUP TRIUMPH
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Professor Ayodeji Olawunmi Badejo, has congratulated the institution’s student-athlete, Esther Stephen, following her contribution to Nigeria’s historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Badejo described the achievement as a moment of immense pride for the university, Lagos State and Nigeria.
She also congratulated the Flamingos squad, their coaches, technical crew and the Nigeria Football Federation on the victory, which saw Nigeria defeat Japan 2-1 in the final played in Rabat, Morocco, on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
Goals from Awawu Bashiru in the 39th minute and Oluebube Umejiaku in the 47th minute secured the victory, making the Flamingos the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The Vice-Chancellor particularly praised Stephen for her performance throughout the tournament, saying her dedication, discipline, versatility and contribution to the team’s success reflected the university’s commitment to developing students who excel academically and in extracurricular activities.
“I am immensely delighted and proud that a student of Lagos State University has played such a significant role in bringing this historic honour to Nigeria and the African continent.
“Esther Stephen has demonstrated that our students possess the talent, discipline, determination, and competitive spirit required to excel on the global stage,” she said.
Badejo added that the achievement reinforced LASU’s reputation as a breeding ground for excellence and a platform for nurturing champions.
She assured that her administration would continue to identify, develop and support promising talents across the university, providing opportunities for students to excel in academics, sports, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Vice-Chancellor also expressed her anticipation of receiving Stephen at the university to celebrate her achievement.
Stephen, who hails from Benue State, is a Diploma II student of Human Kinetics, Sports and Health Education at LASU.
She featured in all seven matches played by the Flamingos during the tournament, demonstrating consistency and defensive resilience.
The versatile defender primarily played as a right full-back for the national team and provided the assist for Umejiaku’s winning goal in the final against Japan.
At club level, she plays for Unification Female Team, Lagos, where she features as a central defender and captains the side.
Her latest international achievement adds to her sporting record, having been a member of the LASU female football team that defeated the University of Lagos to win gold at the 2024 All Africa University Games, jointly hosted by both institutions.
The victory also secured the team’s qualification to represent Africa at the 2025 World University Games in China.
Badejo further acknowledged the contributions of Stephen’s coaches, lecturers and other members of the university community whose guidance and support have contributed to her sporting and academic development.
She described the Flamingos’ triumph as a significant milestone for the university, Lagos State and Nigeria, demonstrating the ability of young Nigerians to excel on the international stage.
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