Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, popularly known as the Flamingos have taken a decisive step toward another global campaign after a newly assembled squad was unveiled ahead of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The list, released by the Nigeria Football Federation, signals the beginning of a new chapter under recently appointed head coach Akeem Busari, who is tasked with guiding the young side back to the world stage.
A New Dawn Under Newly Appointed Coach Busari
Busari’s appointment lead a new transition for the Flamingos following the departure of Bankole Olowookere, who led the team to a historic bronze medal finish at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Now at the helm, Busari is set to stamp his authority by building a new-look squad capable of competing at the highest level.
The newly named roster includes standout talents such as Bayelsa Queens forward, Harmony Chidi and FC Robo Queens striker, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, alongside 34 other players drawn largely from the domestic league.
Full Invited Flamingos Squad
The 36-player squad reflects depth across all departments:
Goalkeepers (5)
- Dorathy Noel Ndaks,
- Sylvia Echefu,
- Abidemi Aiyeolowo,
- Amarachi Atulayo,
- Rita Anthony
Defenders (10)
- Sefiat Idris,
- Veronica Kefas,
- Pattra Oparanmegwa,
- Chioma James,
- Azeezat Oduntan,
- Justina Godwin,
- Kanyinsola Yusuf,
- Fakoya Akinola,
- Esther Enne,
- God’s-Gift Afigbediotor
Midfielders (13)
- Shakirat Sarafa,
- Deborah Olayiwola,
- Tosin Tiamiyu,
- Fidel Pepple,
- Favour Etim,
- Blessing Sunday,
- Oluwatosin Yusuf,
- Awawu Bashiru,
- Endurance Omoroka,
- Ogaga Adams,
- Memunat Rotimi,
- Anesthesia Akwubo,
- Busayo Ogunlede
Forwards (8)
- Harmony Chidi,
- Aminat Abiodun,
- Mary Dustan,
- Patricia Habila,
- Kindness Ifeanyi,
- Oluwakemi Adegbuyi,
- Queen Joseph,
- Istifanus Shavih
The heavy representation from the Nigeria Women Football League is depicts the federation’s commitment to developing homegrown talent.
Road to Morocco: The Qualification Battle
Nigeria’s journey to the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will begin in the second round of qualifiers.
The Flamingos are set to face the winner of the first-round clash between Niger and Guinea.
- First leg: Away (between May 22–24)
- Second leg: Nigeria (May 30)
With the stakes high, Busari’s side must navigate this hurdle to stay on course for qualification.
The Flamingos will be eager to build on their legacy after their bronze-winning heroics in 2022 and a round-of-16 exit at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
This is not just another campaign, It is the beginning of a new era for the Flamingos, and the journey to Morocco has officially begun.
Technical Crew Reinforced
The Nigeria Football Federation has also bolstered the technical bench with experienced hands:
- Joy Jegede-Idakwo – First Assistant Coach
- Aighewi Omodiaghe – Second Assistant Coach
- Kola Ige – Goalkeeper Coach
Their inclusion is expected to provide tactical depth and mentorship to the young squad.
READ MORE: “It’s Quite Painful” – Flamingos Coach Apologizes After U17WWC Elimination
READ MORE: Painful Exit: Italy Ends Nigeria’s Flamingos U-17 World Cup Journey
READ MORE: Revolution Begins as Coach Busari Steps In to Transform Flamingos Future
“A Goalkeeper Is Already a Coach” – Ige Speaks
Goalkeeper coach, Kola Ige offered insight into his coaching philosophy, highlighting the unique role of goalkeepers in team organization:
“Even as a goalkeeper, one is already a coach without knowing it,”
He further explained:
“While manning the post, you are the last man in the team. You see every player, you see all that goes on on the pitch, and you control your teammates, telling them what to do at any given time, as well as organising their movements.”
“While doing these, you are already performing a coaching role without realising it.”
Reflecting on his appointment, Ige added:
“I served the country in the past as a goalkeeper at various levels. This time, I have been recognised and called upon to work with the U-17 women’s national team,”
“For me, it is another opportunity to serve my country because it is often said that the reward for hard work is more work.”
