NSC Demands Apology from Peter Obi Over Flamingos’ Airport Incident

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has criticised former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi over his account of an alleged incident involving Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials and the victorious Flamingos at the Abuja airport.
NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, described Obi’s account as misleading and demanded an unreserved public apology, accusing the politician of politicising the team’s historic achievement.
Obi had alleged that NFF officials prevented him from greeting and congratulating the Nigeria U-17 women’s team after their return from Morocco, claiming they feared losing their jobs if they allowed him to approach the players.
However, Dikko said officials who received the team reported that Obi was not seen around the players. He explained that two individuals wearing Obi-branded campaign attire requested a meeting and photo session, but the request was declined because the players were tired after their journey and no prior arrangement had been made.
The NSC chairman maintained that the decision was based on the players’ welfare and not political considerations. He also accused Obi of turning what he described as a routine decision into a narrative of political victimisation.
The dispute follows the Flamingos’ historic triumph at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, making them the first African team to win the competition.