The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has named seasoned coaches Manu Garba and Moses Aduku as the new heads of the Golden Eaglets and Falconets, respectively.
The announcement, made via an official statement by NFF’s Head of Communications Ademola Olajire on Friday, confirms that both coaches will formally assume their roles on Sunday, July 27, 2025.
Manu Garba, an acclaimed youth coach and former international, returns to the U-17 national team—familiarly known as the Golden Eaglets—with a strong legacy.
His most notable achievement came in 2013 when he led the team to victory at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, marking Nigeria’s fourth title in the tournament. He also steered the team to qualification for the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil.
Garba’s return signals a renewed ambition to reinstate Nigeria’s dominance in youth football, particularly as the Golden Eaglets prepare to compete in the West African Football Union B U-17 Tournament this September—an event Nigeria is set to host.
In parallel, the NFF has appointed Moses Aduku as Head Coach of the Falconets, Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team.
Aduku is well-respected in domestic women’s football circles, having managed top-tier clubs such as Bayelsa Queens and Edo Queens.
His ability to nurture talent and inspire young female athletes has earned him a strong reputation within the sport.
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He also brings valuable international experience, having served as assistant coach during the Falconets’ successful run to the quarter-finals of the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup held in Costa Rica.
Aduku now faces a fresh challenge: leading the Falconets in their upcoming qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. The team is scheduled to play against Rwanda in a crucial qualifier in September.
His task will involve not only shaping a competitive squad but also instilling tactical discipline and resilience as the team aims for global glory once more.
NAN
