Olowookere Appreciates NFF Leaders Gusau and Sanusi, Wishes Successor Busari Greater Glory

By Saheed Afolabi

The immediate past head coach of Nigeria’s U17 women’s national team, Bankole Olowookere, has expressed deep appreciation to Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau and General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi for entrusting him with the reins of the Flamingos.

Olowookere etched his name in Nigerian football history when he guided the Flamingos to a bronze medal finish at the 2022 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in India, the team’s best-ever performance at the tournament.

Beyond the podium finish, the Ekiti-born tactician transformed the Flamingos into a formidable talent factory, consistently supplying top-quality players to the Falconets (U20) and senior Super Falcons squads.

In a recent move, the NFF appointed elite coach Akeem Busari as Olowookere’s successor, tasking him with building on the solid foundation already laid.

Speaking on the appointment, Olowookere wished Busari every success and prayed that he would surpass the third-place achievement at the World Cup.

“I’m grateful to the NFF leadership for the opportunity they gave me. I appreciate my technical crew for the heights we attained together,” Olowookere said.

“I also wish Coach Busari all the best as he takes over. May he achieve even greater things with this wonderful team.”