Head Coach Akeem Busari unveiled a 36‑player roster for Nigeria's U‑17 women's side, the Flamingos, as the team prepares for the second round of the FIFA U‑17 Women's World Cup qualifiers. The squad, announced alongside the Nigeria Football Federation's confirmation of a new backroom team, comprises five goalkeepers, ten defenders, thirteen midfielders and eight forwards. Busari steps into the role after the exit of former coach Bankole Olowookere.
The goalkeeping contingent features Dorathy Noel Ndaks of Nasarawa Amazons, Sylvia Echefu from Bayelsa Queens, Abidemi Aiyeolowo of Remo Stars Ladies, Amarachi Atulayo representing Heartland Queens and Rita Anthony of Confluence Queens. Defenders include Sefiat Idris (Bayelsa Queens), Veronica Kefas (Plateau United Ladies), Pattra Oparanmegwa (Delta Queens), Chioma James (Imo Strikers), Azeezat Oduntan (FC Robo Queens), Justina Godwin (Kwara United Ladies), Kanyinsola Yusuf (FC Robo Queens), Fakoya Akinola (Ekiti Queens), Esther Enne (Unification FC) and God's‑Gift Afigbediotor (Ibom Angels).
Midfield selections range from Shakirat Sarafa (Remo Stars Ladies) to Anaesthesia Akwubo (Ahudiyannem FC), with notable names such as Deborah Olayiwola (Bayelsa Queens) and Blessing Sunday (Confluence Queens). Up front, Harmony Chidi (Bayelsa Queens), Aminat Abiodun (Pacesetter Queens) and Queen Joseph (Fosla Academy) round out the attack. The NFF also approved the appointment of new assistant coaches to support Busari ahead of the crucial fixtures. Nigeria, bronze medallists at the 2022 tournament, will meet the winner of the Niger Republic‑Guinea first‑round tie, with the first leg set for the weekend of 22‑24 May and a return on 30 May in Nigeria.
It is surprising that a side fresh from a bronze finish is already overhauling its roster, introducing a majority of new faces rather than relying on the core that delivered the 2022 success.
The extensive turnover suggests Busari is prioritising depth and competition for places, especially in midfield where thirteen players were named. This could give the Flamingos flexibility to adapt tactics against an unknown opponent, but it also risks a lack of cohesion if the newcomers do not gel quickly.
Among the call‑ups, goalkeeper Dorathy Noel Ndaks stands out as a potential anchor; her performances for Nasarawa Amazons have drawn attention, and a reliable last‑line defender will be vital in the two‑leg tie that follows the Niger Republic‑Guinea showdown.
The next focal point will be the first leg against the eventual winner of the Niger‑Guinea clash. Observers will watch how Busari integrates the expanded squad and whether the new assistants can translate the fresh personnel into a cohesive unit capable of advancing to the final qualifying round.
