The Nigeria National U-17 Head Coach, Hakeem Ishola Busari, has called for greater inclusion and development of Women Football Coaches across Nigeria, stressing the need for more women to be encouraged to take up coaching roles at all levels of the game.
Busari, a CAF A Licensed Instructor, made the call while speaking at the concluded 2026 Coaches Seminar organised by the Osun State Football Coaches Association, where he shared his wealth of knowledge and experience with participating coaches.
The Coach expressed concern over the low participation of women coaches at the seminar, noting that only two women Coach Adewuyi Foluso Ajayi from Oyo State and Coach Adunola Yinka from Osun State were among the participants. He urged Coaching Councils and Football Stakeholders at the State and National levels to take the development of Women coaches seriously by reaching out to the grassroots and creating more opportunities for women to access coaching education and licensing courses.
“Women’s football has come to stay, and it continues to grow to international standards. We need both Men and Women Coaches to develop their knowledge together because football is for everyone,” Busari stressed.
Speaking on the growth of the Women’s Football in Nigeria, Busari highlighted the progress made by the National team and the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL), noting that several prominent Super Falcons players began their journey through the country’s youth development system. He cited Super Falcons Stars such as Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala as examples of players who progressed through the youth national teams before establishing themselves at the highest level of international and club football.
The Flamingos Coach also pointed to the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership season as further evidence of the steady development of women’s football in the country, highlighting young talents such as Kemi Adegbuyi, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, alongside Kafayat Mafisere and Peace Effiong.
Busari commended the Nigeria Football Federation and stakeholders in Women’s football for their efforts in promoting the growth of the women’s game, while also praising coaches who continue to develop young players and contribute to the success of their respective teams.
He added that the performances of the Super Falcons have raised expectations ahead of the forthcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with the defending champions expected to once again challenge for the continental title.
Turning his attention to the Flamingos and their preparations for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, Busari appreciated Nigerians for their continued support, prayers and advice to the team.
He emphasised that the Flamingos represent the entire nation and not individuals, adding that the technical crew remains focused on ensuring the team is fully prepared for the global tournament.
According to Busari, the team is looking forward to intensive training sessions as preparations continue, with emphasis on discipline, teamwork, team culture and sustained hard work. He expressed confidence that the technical crew will continue to work closely with the players to build a strong team capable of delivering an improved performance on the world stage.
Busari concluded by calling for continued support, prayers and encouragement from Nigerians as the Flamingos continue their preparations, insisting that the team will give its best in the quest to make the nation proud.
A graduate of Federal Polytechnic Ede, she has built experience covering football leagues, tournaments, and major national news events across Nigeria.
She currently serves as the Media Officer of Ase Ridyem FC, where she oversees the club’s media and communication activities, helping to strengthen its digital presence and fan engagement.
Ayomikun is also a writer for SportsTheOfficial Blog and the face of SportsTheOfficial across its digital platforms, delivering sports news, exclusive interviews, and engaging stories that connect fans to the game.
With a strong passion for sports media and storytelling, she remains committed to building a successful career in sports journalism while contributing to the growth and promotion of sports in Nigeria.
