The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially confirmed the appointment of Akeem Ishola Busari as the new head coach of the national U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos. Busari transitions into the role from his current position as the technical lead for Pacesetters Queens of Ibadan, a prominent side in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL). This leadership change marks the conclusion of a long-standing era under Bankole Olowookere, who had been at the helm of the youth squad for several years.
Olowookere’s tenure was highlighted by a historic bronze-medal finish at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in India, where the Flamingos secured a third-place podium spot. Busari now inherits the responsibility of maintaining this high standard of international competitiveness as the team prepares for their upcoming continental assignments.
The new head coach faces an immediate challenge, with the Flamingos scheduled to compete in the second qualifying round of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup next month. Nigeria is set to encounter either Niger or Guinea in that pivotal fixture. Successful navigation of the qualifying series will secure the team’s place at the global tournament, which is slated to be hosted by Morocco later this year.
