New Flying Eagles head coach Abdul Maikaba says he is ready for the challenge of leading the national U-20 team after officially taking charge of the seven-time African champions.
The Nigeria Football Federation officially confirmed Maikaba as the new coach of the Flying Eagles after the decision was approved by the NFF Executive Committee following recommendations from its Technical and Development Committee. He replaces Aliyu Zubairu and immediately steps into one of the most demanding roles in Nigerian youth football.
The NFF also confirmed that Ortega Deniran will serve as first assistant coach, while Abdullahi Biffo takes the role of second assistant. Former international Usman Mohammed has been appointed goalkeepers’ trainer.
Maikaba previously worked as head coach of the Nigeria national under-17 football team and also served as assistant coach of the Flying Eagles under Paul Aigbogun.
Following the announcement, Maikaba took to his X page to outline his ambitions for the team.
“I am deeply honoured to take on this role as head coach of the Nigeria U-20 Flying Eagles,” Maikaba wrote on Sunday.
“To lead this team is a massive responsibility and a privilege I do not take lightly. Nigeria’s football history is built on passion, grit and talent.
“We are ready to write the next chapter. The challenges before us are great, but our determination is greater. The work starts immediately — nurturing Nigeria’s finest young talents, creating a winning culture and making millions of Nigerians proud on the global stage.
“Thank you to the NFF for this trust, and to all Nigerians for your unstoppable energy. Together, we soar.”
Maikaba’s first major assignment will be preparing Nigeria for the WAFU B U-20 Championship scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast in July.
The regional tournament carries enormous importance as it serves as the qualification pathway for the Africa U-20 Cup of Nations. Failure to perform well would end Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the continental championship and potentially qualifying for the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Maikaba has already invited a 35-man provisional squad to begin tactical and physical preparations ahead of the tournament. The squad consists of three goalkeepers, 10 defenders, 11 midfielders and 11 forwards.
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