Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have entered a new era following the official appointment of Akeem Ishola Busari as head coach by the Nigeria Football Federation.
The decision, endorsed by the NFF Executive Committee upon recommendation from its Technical and Development Committee, signals a strategic shift toward long-term development and sustained success in women’s football.
End of an Era, Start of Busari Era
Busari replaces Bankole Olowookere, who leaves behind a remarkable legacy, most notably guiding the Flamingos to a historic bronze medal at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Olowookere’s tenure established Nigeria as a force at youth level, and Busari now faces the challenge of building on that foundation while introducing his own philosophy.
Currently the head coach of Pacesetter Queens in Ibadan, Busari arrives with what the federation describes as “robust experience and deep understanding of women’s football terrain.”
Immediate Mission: Road to Morocco 2026
Busari’s first assignment is clear and daunting, lead the Flamingos through the qualification race for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria will face the winner of the preliminary clash between Niger and Guinea in the second round.
- First leg: Away (third week of May)
- Second leg: Nigeria
With qualification on the line, the new coach will be under immediate pressure to deliver results.
Development Over Everything – Coach Busari
Newly appointed Busari has made it clear that his long-term vision goes beyond short-term victories, despite the urgency of qualification.
“Development is the priority, we must build them properly”
“It’s about the future.”
The new Flamingos boss emphasized the importance of laying a solid foundation for the future, focusing on the fundamentals that shape elite players.
His philosophy revolves around improving technical ability, tactical intelligence, and mental strength, key ingredients he believes are essential for producing complete footballers.
Busari pledges his commitment to nurturing talents who can rise through Nigeria’s football ranks.
Building a Pipeline for the Future
The Flamingos have long served as a critical development platform for Nigerian women’s football, producing players who progress to higher levels, including the senior national team.
Busari is determined to preserve and enhance that legacy.
“We want to produce top players,”
His approach aligns with a broader push within Nigerian football to strengthen grassroots systems and ensure continuity across all national teams.
For Busari, success is not just measured in trophies, but in the number of players who evolve into world-class talents.
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Reinforced Technical Crew
To support his mission, the NFF has assembled a strong technical team:
- Joy Jegede-Idakwo – First Assistant Coach
- Aighewi Omodiaghe – Second Assistant Coach
- Kola Ige – Goalkeeper Trainer
The blend of experience and youth development expertise is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of stars.
As Busari steps into one of the most important roles in Nigeria’s youth football structure, expectations are already high.
He inherits a team with pedigree, a federation eager for continued success, and a country passionate about women’s football.
In a football culture often driven by immediate results, Busari’s long-term vision could redefine the Flamingos’ future following his message – “Development is the priority.”
