Nigeria U-17 Women’s coach Bankole Olowookere reflects on 2025

Nigeria Under-17 Women’s Team head coach, Bankole Olowookere, has issued a heartfelt tribute to the supporters of the Flamingos, crediting the fans as the “backbone” of the team’s 2025 campaign.

Olowookere, the tactical mastermind who famously broke Nigeria’s “quarter-final jinx” to secure a historic bronze medal at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, reflected on a year of highs and lows in his New Year message to the nation.

Despite a valiant effort in the 2025 edition held in Morocco, the Flamingos’ journey was cut short following a narrow, heart-wrenching exit at the hands of Italy. However, Bankole Olowookere insists that the unwavering support from home and in the stands of Morocco did not go unnoticed.

“I want to wish all well-meaning Nigerians and the supporters of the Flamingos a happy New Year,” the former Naija Ratels coach stated. “Thank you for the support you gave to the team and me in 2025; your passion has been seen and heard, from the qualifiers all the way to Morocco and back. You have been the backbone of the team.”

Bankole Olowookere hails Flamingos fans after 2025 World Cup journey

Eyes on the Domestic Front Beyond his international duties, Olowookere is also balancing the pressure of the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL), where he currently leads Osun Babes. The “Omoluabi Queens” have endured a stuttering start to the season, currently sitting 7th in Group B with four points from four matches.

Addressing the club’s faithful, Olowookere promised a tactical resurgence as they chase a spot in the coveted Super Six.

“To the fans of Osun Babes, thank you for believing in me and the team,” he added. “We are working hard to correct our lapses to produce better results and a more encouraging position on the league table by the end of the season. Keep up the love and passion for the team.”

As the 2026 footballing calendar begins, Olowookere faces a dual mission: rebuilding the Flamingos for the next cycle and steering Osun Babes away from the bottom half of the NWFL standings.