Flamingos Boss Olowookere Sends New Year Message to Fans

Bankole Olowookere, the head coach of Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, has sent New Year greetings to supporters of the Flamingos who stood by the team throughout their 2025 campaign.

Olowookere, who famously broke the “quarter-final jinx” for the Flamingos, by leading them to their best-ever finish at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2022, where they secured the bronze medal.

He was also in charge during the 2025 edition in Morocco, where the team unfortunately exited following a 4–0 defeat in the Round of 16.

Speaking on the New Year festivities, the gaffer expressed his appreciation for the fans’ passion and support.

“I want to wish all well-meaning Nigerians and the supporters of the Flamingos a happy New Year. I wish them a great 2026 ahead as we enter a new footballing calendar year.

Thank you for the support you gave to me and the team 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. Enjoy your New Year and let your support in us remain strong.”

Olowookere, who also manages the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) side Osun Babes, promised club fans that there would be visible improvements in the new year as they hope to finish as strong as possible.

“To the fans of Osun Babes, thank you for believing in me and the team. We want to assure you that 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, and have a wonderful 2026 with us.”

Osun Babes currently sit 7th in Group B of the NWFL standings with four points from four games. They still have everything to play for as they aim to qualify for the Super Six at the end of the regular season.