Reigning Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) champions, Bayelsa Queens, have officially announced their 25-player squad for the upcoming West Africa Football Union (WAFU) Zone B CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers. The tournament is scheduled to take place from August 9 to 24 in the Ivory Coast.
The Yenagoa-based side, popularly known as the Prosperity Girls, are brimming with confidence after clinching the 2024/25 NWFL title in dominant fashion, courtesy of a 4-1 win over Naija Ratels in the final round of the Super Six playoffs. With regional glory now in sight, Bayelsa Queens are determined to book their ticket to the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League by winning the WAFU B qualifiers.
Head coach Whyte Ogbonda has assembled a formidable squad led by team captain Blessing Ilivieda, who will marshal the defence alongside Florence Alexander, Jennifer Oliver, Otega Okoko, Semilore Bumi, Amblessed Ogbonnaya, Sefiat Idris, and Chinyere Iheoma.
In the goalkeeping department, the quartet of Monle Omini, Linda Jiwuaku, Agatha Thompson, and Sylvia Echefu are expected to provide solid coverage between the sticks.
The midfield will feature dynamic talents such as Mary Aderemi, Vera Samuel, Dooshima Tarnum, Bankole Sofiat, Chiamaka Ezekwugo, and Kafayat Mafisere—players known for their vision and tactical intelligence.
Up front, the attacking line includes Janet Akekoromowei, Shakirat Moshood, Emem Essien, Lucky Mary, Alaba Olabiyi, Ifeanyi Kindness, and Delight Issac. These forwards will be tasked with spearheading the charge as Bayelsa Queens seek to outscore opponents and reclaim their regional dominance.
Bayelsa Queens are no strangers to success on the continental stage, having previously won the second edition of the WAFU B tournament in 2022. They will be aiming to lift the trophy once again and join Nigeria’s growing list of elite representatives at the CAF Women’s Champions League.
The 2024 edition of the regional qualifiers was won by Edo Queens, who defeated Ainonvi FC of Benin Republic 3-0 in the final. Bayelsa Queens are now focused on regaining their crown and showcasing Nigerian excellence in African women’s club football once more.
Victory in Ivory Coast will grant automatic qualification to the prestigious 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League.
