Bayelsa Queens Bolster Squad Ahead of New Season, Continental Campaign

Reigning champions of the Nigerian Women’s Football League, Bayelsa Queens, on Thursday, July 3, 2025 added proven quality and depth to what was already a formidable team, in preparation for their WAFU-B qualifiers, CAF Women’s Champions League, and the upcoming NWFL Premiership campaign.

The Prosperity Girls got the signature Janet Akekoromowei and Lucky Mary from Nasarawa Amazons and Abia Angels, respectively. Akekeromowei who will wear the number nine jersey at the Bayelsa Queens, joined her previous side, Nasarawa Amazons at the start of the 2024/25 season – her debut professional season – and quickly became a key player.

She emerged as the 2025 NWFL Premiership Super 6 Most Valuable Player after netting four goals in Super 6 and 13 overall, making her the second highest goal scorer, just two goals behind top scorer Bolaji Olamide who had 15.

The 17-year-old forward who hails from Ese-Odo in Ondo state, but was raised in Lagos, is a product of the Asisat Oshoala Academy. She has represented Nigeria in the U-17 and U-20 levels, scoring in Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Tanzania in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

Her inclusion in the national team speaks highly of her talent and gives her experience on a global stage, both of which will be incredibly beneficial to Bayelsa Queens. Likened to Nigerian legend Rashidi Yekini, Akekeromowei possesses immense footballing talent. She is clinical, agile, has the ability to fall deep, good ball control, great footwork, impressive dribbling skills, recovery and poses a big threat to defenders.

Speaking after joining the South-South side, Akekoromowei promised to give her best.

“I’m excited to join Bayelsa Queens and can’t wait to give my best for this great club.”

Bayelsa Queens’ second signing is another firepower Attacker, Lucky Mary from Abia Angels. She scored eight goals for her former side last season, including two hat-tricks: against Confluence Queens and Dannaz Ladies on Matchday four (Wednesday, February 5, 2024) and seven (Wednesday, February 26, 2024), respectively.

Mary, who has won several Player of the Match awards, offers pace, good finishing, and alertness.

“I’m grateful for this opportunity and ready to give my best for Bayelsa Queens,” Lucky Mary said following the move.

Speaking after the acquisitions, Bayelsa Queens coach Whyte Ogbonda revealed that his side will still make reinforcements despite the additions of attacking powerhouses.

“I’m very pleased with the quality of players we’ve brought in so far, Janet Akekoromowei and Lucky Mary are both proven attackers with the hunger and talent to help us compete at the highest level. Their arrival will add depth, creativity, and more goal-scoring options to the team.

“However, we are not done yet. We are still working to strengthen a few key areas to ensure we have a balanced, competitive squad ready to represent Bayelsa Queens with pride both at home and on the continent.

“Our aim is to build a team that can challenge for every trophy. I’m confident the new faces, alongside our existing players, will deliver the results our fans expect.”