Akeem Busari has become the first coach to lead an African team to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title, just seven months after taking charge of Nigeria’s Flamingos.

The Nigerian coach achieved the feat on Saturday, November 7, when the Flamingos defeated Japan 2-1 in the final of the 2026 tournament at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, Morocco.

Mr Busari was appointed head coach of the Flamingos by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on April 2, 2026, replacing Bankole Olowookere, who led Nigeria to third place at the 2022 tournament in India.

Before his appointment, he was head coach of Pacesetter Queens Football Club in Ibadan, Oyo State.

His coaching career also included spells with Shooting Stars, Gateway United, JSP FC and Bayelsa Queens.

Busari began his coaching education at the National Institute for Sports (NIS) in Lagos, where he obtained his first qualification in 1999.

He returned to the institute between 2003 and 2006 for further training, receiving his coaching certificates in October 2006.

Following his appointment, Busari guided Nigeria through the World Cup qualifiers, including an 8-5 aggregate victory over Benin Republic.

The Flamingos began their campaign in Morocco with a 2-1 defeat to Poland but recovered to win their next six matches and claim the trophy.

One of Busari’s decisions was introducing Awawu Bashiru into the starting lineup against Brazil in the semi-final.

Bashiru scored twice in Nigeria’s 3-1 victory before opening the scoring against Japan in the final.

Oluebube Umejiaku, who also began the tournament as a substitute, scored Nigeria’s winning goal against Japan and received the Golden Ball award as the competition’s best player.

Speaking to FIFA after the victory, Akeem Busari explained that his team selections were based on more than ability.

“No matter how good you are, I’m a coach that plays on character,” he said.

“It’s all about mindset, attitude and merit; if they’re there, you get your playing time. If they’re not there, you’re waiting to come in.”

The coach said Nigeria’s achievement showed the progress African teams were making in international football.

“This is a turnaround for Africa,” he said.

“Being a champion is going to go a long way to really motivate us, and we are sending a signal, a message to the world that Africa is really coming.”