The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is in mourning following the passing of Bayelsa Queens coach, Domo Okara.
The esteemed coach passed away early Saturday morning at the age of 47.
In a heartfelt statement, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi expressed the federation’s shock and sorrow: “We are shocked and saddened beyond words. In all sincerity, we are still trying to process the report. I have spoken to a lot of people who said they interacted with him days earlier and he was hale and hearty. This is a very sorrowful development.
“Okara was one of the pillars of women’s football coaching in the country. Indeed, it is a period of mourning for the women’s game in our country because the man was more than a coach. He was a mentor, a leader and an inspiration to many.
“We pray that God will give him eternal rest and also grant the immediate family, his friends, Bayelsa Queens FC family, and Nigeria football the fortitude to bear this sudden and big loss.”
Bayelsa Queens also shared their grief on X, stating: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our cherished Technical Adviser, Coach Domo Okara. His impact on Bayelsa Queens is unforgettable. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Thank you, Coach. You’ll be deeply missed.”
Under Okara’s guidance, Bayelsa Queens achieved significant success, including winning the 2022 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) title and the 2023 Federation Cup. His leadership also steered the team to a bronze medal in the 2022 CAF Women’s Champions League, marking the best performance by any Nigerian team in the competition.
The loss of Domo Okara leaves a profound void in Nigerian football, particularly in women’s football, where his contributions and legacy will be long remembered.