NFF appoints Akeem Busari as new Flamingos head coach
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Committee has appointed Coach Akeem Busari as the new Head Coach of the U17 Girls National Team (Flamingos). Busari, currently the Head Coach of Pacesetter Queens Football Club in Ibadan, replaces Coach Bankole Olowookere who led the team to a bronze medal at the 2022 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in India.
Busari's immediate and critical task is to guide the Flamingos through the upcoming African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, which will be hosted by Morocco. The team is on standby to face the winner of the preliminary match between Niger Republic and Guinea. The first leg of that tie is scheduled to be played away from home in the third week of next month (May 2026).
The appointment comes from a recommendation by the NFF's Technical and Development Committee. The decision signals the Federation's focus on qualifying for the World Cup. The new coach is noted for his robust experience and deep understanding of women's football in Nigeria.
Key dates to note: The first-leg qualifier away match is set for the third week of May 2026. The path to securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup in Morocco now hinges on Busari's strategy and preparation for this crucial tie.