Nigeria’s Flamingos will now open their campaign at the 2026 WAFU-B U-17 Girls Tournament against Niger Republic on September 16, following a late change to the fixtures after Benin Republic withdrew from the competition.

The withdrawal has prompted a reshuffling of the tournament schedule, with Nigeria’s opening fixture against Ghana replaced by a clash with Niger.

The Flamingos are expected to depart Nigeria on Monday for Côte d’Ivoire, where they will compete in the regional age-grade tournament.

Nigeria will now begin their campaign against Niger Republic on Wednesday, September 16, before facing Ghana in their second fixture.

The young Nigerians will then conclude their group-stage programme against hosts Côte d’Ivoire.

The fixture adjustment means the Flamingos will have to quickly adapt to a revised schedule as they pursue a strong showing in the WAFU-B competition.

The tournament provides an important competitive platform for Nigeria’s U-17 women as they continue their development and preparations for the challenges ahead.

The Flamingos have traditionally been one of Africa’s leading forces at U-17 level and will be seeking to translate their preparations into a strong campaign in Côte d’Ivoire.

With the revised schedule now confirmed, attention will turn to the opening encounter against Niger, before Nigeria face Ghana and the host nation.

The team’s technical crew will hope the late fixture change does not disrupt preparations as the Flamingos begin their regional campaign.