Reigning Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) champions, Bayelsa Queens, have announced a 25-player provisional squad for the upcoming WAFU Zone B Women’s Champions League qualifiers, scheduled to take place from August 9 to 24, 2025, in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire.
The squad, unveiled by head coach Whyte Ogbonda, comprises a strong blend of experience and youth, as the Yenagoa-based side prepares to fly Nigeria’s flag in the prestigious regional tournament.
Bayelsa Queens earned their place at the competition after winning the 2024/25 NWFL title in May, reclaiming their status as one of Nigeria’s elite women’s football teams. They now aim to emulate or surpass last year’s success by Edo Queens, who won the WAFU Zone B tournament and represented the region at the CAF Women’s Champions League.
High Stakes in Côte d’Ivoire
The WAFU B qualifiers serve as the gateway to the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League, with only the tournament winner guaranteed a place in Africa’s premier women’s club competition.
Coach Ogbonda is expected to trim the provisional list down ahead of the team’s final training camp, as preparations intensify for what promises to be a fiercely competitive tournament featuring top clubs from across West Africa.
“We’ve assembled a squad with depth and versatility. The competition will be tough, but we’re focused on qualifying and making Nigeria proud,” Ogbonda said.
Provisional Squad List
Goalkeepers:
Monle Omini Linda Jiwuaku Agatha Thompson Sylvia Echefu
Defenders:
Blessing Illivieda Florence Alexander Jennifer Oliver Chinyere Iheoma Bumi Semilore Sefiat Idris Amblessed Ogbonnaya Ortega Okoko
Midfielders:
Vera Samuel Mary Aderemi Dooshima Tarnum Kafayat Mafisere Chiamaka Ezekwugo Bankole Sofiat
Forwards:
Janet Akekoromowei Emem Essien Lucky Mary Delight Isaac Ifeanyi Kindness Alaba Olabiyi Shakirat Moshood
Bayelsa Queens, who reached the semifinals of the 2022 CAF Women’s Champions League, will be hoping to make a triumphant return to the continental stage.
