Calls have mounted on Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to honour an indigene of the state, Oluebube Umejiaku, following her outstanding performance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, where she emerged winner of the Adidas Golden Ball award.
Umejiaku, who hails from Umuoru, Uga, in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, was among the standout performers for Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, which defeated Japan 2-1 in the final to clinch the tournament’s title.
The Heartland Queens player was named the tournament’s best player after scoring four goals during the competition, capping her impressive outing with another outstanding performance in the final, where she was also named Player of the Match.
Her Golden Ball triumph has been celebrated as a historic achievement, with her reportedly becoming the first African female footballer to win the award at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Following the feat, well-wishers and football enthusiasts have called on Soludo to publicly receive and honour the young footballer, describing her achievement as a source of pride to Anambra State and a potential inspiration to young girls aspiring to careers in sports.
In an appeal directed at the state Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, the advocates urged the ministry to arrange for the governor to formally recognise Umejiaku.
They argued that a public reception and recognition of the player would not only celebrate her achievement but also encourage other young girls in the state to pursue their sporting ambitions.
Umejiaku’s achievement has further highlighted Anambra’s contribution to Nigerian football and the growing potential of female footballers from the state.
About Author
