The Nigeria Football Federation has officially retained Manu Garba as Head Coach of the Golden Eaglets, marking his fourth tenure in charge of the U‑17 national team. The appointment was approved by the NFF’s Executive Committee following the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub‑Committee.
Garba previously led Nigeria to FIFA U‑17 World Cup glory in 2013 and steered the team to qualification for the 2019 edition in Brazil. His reappointment reflects ongoing confidence in his ability to guide the youth side through crucial upcoming tournaments, including the WAFU B U‑17 Championship, which Nigeria will host later this year.
In tandem, Moses Aduku has been named head coach of the Falconets (U‑20 Women’s side), but Garba’s focus will solely be on preparing the Golden Eaglets for their regional and continental assignments in September 2025.
Editorial
We welcome the retention of Manu Garba as a strategic move grounded in continuity, experience, and proven success. His 2013 FIFA U‑17 World Cup triumph remains a touchstone for Nigerian youth football excellence. We assert that leadership consistency matters in youth development. A coach familiar with both national expectations and developmental pressures offers an edge when nurturing the next generation of talent.
We believe Garba’s fourth spell reaffirms faith in a method that balances tactical discipline with player growth. His previous success in guiding teams to major finals provides a credible framework for the Eaglets’ pathway ahead. We feel that Garba’s tenure should be paired with modernised support systems: enhanced scouting networks, psychological coaching and international exposure programmes. These elements, combined with his expertise, can elevate individual and collective performance.
We maintain confidence that this appointment lays a stable foundation for both short‑ and long‑term success. With Garba at the helm, the Golden Eaglets possess leadership continuity and tactical depth as they prepare to contest at home in the forthcoming WAFU B tournament.
Did You Know?
- Manu Garba led Nigeria to their fourth FIFA U‑17 World Cup title in 2013, held in the United Arab Emirates.
- He has served as Head Coach of the Golden Eaglets on three previous occasions, including qualification for the 2019 U‑17 World Cup in Brazil.
- The Golden Eaglets are Nigeria’s most decorated youth team, having won the U‑17 World Cup on five occasions (1985, 1993, 2007, 2013, 2015).
- The WAFU B U‑17 Championship, which Nigeria is set to host in September 2025, acts as qualification for the Africa U‑17 Cup of Nations.
- Moses Aduku, appointed concurrently as the Falconets head coach, led Bayelsa Queens to a Nigeria Women Football League title before taking over the U‑20 side.
