Chairman of the NFF Youth Committee and Executive Board Member, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, has expressed deep pride and gratitude following Nigeria’s qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, describing the achievement as a “golden ticket” that validates Nigeria’s status as the giant of African youth football.
Speaking in the aftermath of the Flying Eagles’ tense quarter-final victory over Senegal — a match that ended 0-0 after extra time and was decided 3-1 in Nigeria’s favour on penalties — Majekodunmi reflected on the journey, the vision, and the leadership that made it possible.
“After lifting the WAFU trophy in Togo, I remember clearly saying our next focus must be the World Cup ticket. Today, the boys have delivered on that promise. This is not just a win — it’s a statement. We have shown once again that Nigeria is the true powerhouse of youth football in Africa,” he said.
The veteran administrator was quick to credit the unified support system behind the team’s success, particularly the leadership of NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau.
“I want to sincerely thank the entire Nigerian public for standing solidly behind these boys. Their belief never wavered. I must also commend the leadership of the NFF, especially our president Ibrahim Musa Gusau, whose commitment and strategic support played a huge role in achieving this success.”
Majekodunmi emphasized that the ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup means far more than just tournament progression.
“This World Cup ticket is golden. We’ve been looking for it, and now we’ve got it. Let people say what they want — the facts are on the pitch. Nigeria is coming back.”
With Nigeria now in the semifinals of the 2025 U-20 AFCON and through to the World Cup for the first time since 2019, Majekodunmi reiterated the importance of building on this momentum.
“We’re not done yet. We’re on the right path, and now it’s about finishing strong. The world is watching, and this team is ready.”
