The Nigeria Football Federation has appointed Akeem Busari as the new head coach of the Flamingos. The federation wants him to lead Nigeria’s U-17 girls into the next World Cup qualifying cycle. The NFF confirmed the appointment on April 2 and said its Executive Committee approved the recommendation of the Technical and Development Sub-Committee.
Busari takes over from Bankole Olowookere, who led the Flamingos through one of their strongest periods. Under Olowookere, Nigeria won bronze at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in India. That history gives the coaching change real weight. This is not just a routine switch on the bench. It is the start of a new phase for one of Nigeria’s top youth teams.
The first test comes quickly
The NFF has already outlined Busari’s first assignment. He will lead the Flamingos in the race for a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. Nigeria will face the winner of the preliminary tie between Niger Republic and Guinea. The first leg will take place away from home in the third week of next month.
What Busari brings to the role
Busari currently works as head coach of Pacesetter Queens of Ibadan. He now moves from club football into a bigger national role. The job will demand strong planning, smart selection, and quick results. The Flamingos role is about more than preparing a team. It is about protecting Nigeria’s standard in youth women’s football.
Why this appointment matters
Timing makes this decision important. The qualifiers are close, and expectations around the team are already high. Nigeria’s bronze-medal finish in 2022 also raises the pressure. Busari will face early judgment on structure, continuity, and results. The NFF has made its choice. Now attention shifts to whether he can keep the Flamingos on course for Morocco 2026.
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