MMI Celebrates Mary Akpan, Others On World Cup Victory

Nelson Utip

Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, MMI,  has congratulated Mary Dunstan Akpan, a daughter of Akwa Ibom State and other members  of Nigeria’s U-17 Women National Team, the Flamingos, on their historic triumph at the just concluded FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026.

This was conveyed in a Release issued by the International Public Relations Officer of the organization, Akparawa Idongesit Ikono in Uyo on Wednesday and made available to The Matrix Newspaper.

According to Ikono, the victory marks a historic milestone, making Nigeria the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and a landmark achievement for African women’s football.

“ We particularly acknowledge Mary’s outstanding performances and celebrate her heroic contributions, which played a significant role in Nigeria’s historic success.

The Ikot Abasi-born  youngster exemplified the industry, hard work, resilience, determination and courage for which the Akwa Ibom people are known.

MMI also proudly celebrates two other Akwa Ibom daughters, Arit Robert Effiong, Team Secretary, and Charity Etim Godwin, Team Physiotherapist, whose professional contributions and dedication were equally invaluable to the team’s success.

These young women have brought honour and pride to Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large. Their accomplishments demonstrate the immense talent, capacity and potential of our people, particularly our young women, to excel on the global stage.

MMI urges relevant organizations and stakeholders to join the Akwa Ibom State Government to recognise and celebrate these outstanding ambassadors while creating more opportunities for young talents to thrive in sports and other fields of endeavour.

Once again, we congratulate Mary, Arit, Charity and the entire Flamingos team on this remarkable achievement.

Together, you have made Nigeria and Akwa Ibom proud!” The Release read in part.