Who is Akeem Busari, the new Flamingos coach tasked with World Cup qualification

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has named Akeem Ishola Busari as the new head coach of Nigeria’s U-17 girls’ team, the Flamingos, Soccernet.ng reports.

Busari's appointment, confirmed on April 2, 2026, marks the start of a new chapter for one of Africa’s most successful youth sides.

He takes over from Bankole Olowookere, who led the team to a historic bronze medal at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. That success raised expectations around the team, and Busari now carries the responsibility of maintaining those high standards while building something fresh.

His immediate task is clear. Nigeria are preparing for the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Morocco. After receiving a bye in the early round, the Flamingos will face either Niger Republic or Guinea in May 2026 in a two-legged tie.

It is a tight schedule, and there is little room for error. If Busari’s team progresses, tougher tests will follow in July. But beyond results, his early weeks in charge will also be about shaping a new squad. At U-17 level, players often move on quickly, meaning he must rebuild with fresh talent while keeping Nigeria competitive.

There is also the challenge of restoring belief. The Flamingos exited the last World Cup at the round of 16, losing heavily to Italy. For a team used to being among Africa’s best, that result still lingers. Busari’s job is to steady the group, bring back confidence, and prepare them to compete again on the global stage.

Busari: A career built across Nigeria and beyond

Busari arrives in the role with a long coaching career behind him. A CAF A-licensed coach, he has worked across both men’s and women’s football in Nigeria and abroad, building a reputation for discipline and attacking football.

Before this appointment, he was in charge of Pacesetter Queens FC in Ibadan, where he served as Technical Adviser. His work there further strengthened his standing in the women’s game, an area the NFF clearly values as it looks to develop young talent.

Earlier in his career, Busari handled several well-known Nigerian clubs. These include Shooting Stars, Crown FC, Gateway United, and Bayelsa Queens. At Shooting Stars, he played a key role in helping the club gain promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League during the 2008/2009 season.

He also enjoyed success in domestic cup competitions, winning multiple State FA Cups with both Gateway United and Shooting Stars. At Bayelsa Queens, one of Nigeria’s leading women’s teams, he worked as Technical Director, adding administrative and developmental experience to his coaching profile.

Busari’s influence has not been limited to Nigeria. He has also coached in the Benin Republic, managing Espoir FC and JSP Benin.

He is known for a bold style of play. His teams often press high, win the ball quickly, and attack with purpose. It is an approach that could suit the Flamingos, who traditionally rely on speed, energy, and direct football.

Away from the pitch, Busari is also recognised as a teacher of the game. A graduate of Lead City University, he has worked as a training officer with the Lagos State Coaches Association, helping to mentor younger coaches and develop grassroots football.

All of this now feeds into his biggest challenge yet. Leading Nigeria’s Flamingos is about continuing a proud tradition, developing young players, and preparing them for the senior national team.