A former goalkeeper turned well-travelled tactician takes charge of the Baoress Babes as they look to build on a narrow escape from relegation.
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Ekiti Queens have appointed Sabo Abu Okala as their new head coach ahead of the upcoming Nigeria Women Football League season, with the Office of Sports Development confirming the move.
The appointment opens a new chapter for the Baoress Babes, who narrowly retained their top-flight status last season and now want to push toward becoming a more established force in Nigerian women’s football.
Okala brings decades of experience to the role, having spent his playing days as a goalkeeper for clubs including Sheraton FC, Water Resources FC, FCDA FC, BCC Lions, Niger Tornadoes, Al Wakrah Sports Club in Qatar and Gabros FC.
Track Record In Women’s Football Development
Since moving into coaching, Okala has worked across several clubs and academies, among them Tiyu Academy, Fosac Academy, Kogi United Feeders, Confluence Queens, Honey Badgers and Naija Ratels FC. His time in those roles produced qualification for the NWFL Super Six, a promotion to the Nigeria National League, and a runner-up finish in the Nigerian Women’s League.
He holds coaching certifications from the National Institute for Sports as well as the UEFA Open Fun Football programme, credentials the club believes strengthen his case for the job.
Ekiti Queens’ management said Okala’s background in player development and tactical organisation should help strengthen the squad as they aim for sustained progress rather than another season of survival football. The club described the appointment as part of a longer term plan to build a more competitive setup in the women’s game.
Attention now turns to preseason, where Okala will begin shaping his squad and setting a framework for a Baoress Babes side eager to move beyond last season’s narrow escape.
📌 Did You Know?
- Ekiti Queens are nicknamed the Baoress Babes and represent Ekiti State in the NWFL.
- Okala’s playing career included a stint abroad with Al Wakrah Sports Club in Qatar.
- The NWFL Super Six format determines the league’s eventual champion each season through a playoff round.
- BCC Lions, one of Okala’s former playing clubs, is a storied Nigerian side based in Gboko.
- Ekiti Queens previously parted ways with head coach Jacob Vandi after a two-season spell in charge.
- The Nigeria National League serves as the pathway for clubs pushing for NWFL promotion.
- Okala’s coaching journey spans both club academies and senior teams across different Nigerian states.
