Nigeria: Who is Ahmed Lawal Dankoli, the new Olympic Eagles chief scout?

Olympic Eagles are taking another step in their preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games, with the Nigeria Football Federation adding a familiar name from the country's youth football development system.

Dankoli joins Olympic Eagles technical crew

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Ahmed Lawal Dankoli as chief scout of the U-23 national team.

Dankoli began work on Thursday at the team's training camp in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, as the Olympic Eagles prepare for their upcoming qualifying encounter against DR Congo.

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His primary responsibility will be identifying emerging talent capable of strengthening the squad ahead of the qualification campaign.

A decade of youth development experience

Dankoli has served as head coach of Abuja Football College since 2012. The academy, affiliated with Croatian club HNK Rijeka, has reportedly helped develop more than 100 players who have featured in the Nigeria Professional Football League and European competitions, with over 40 currently playing in Europe.

He previously coached Ranchers Bees FC, Sokoto Football Academy and the NPFL U-17 All-Stars. His national-team experience includes roles with the U-15, U-17, U-20 and U-23 setups between 2019 and 2024.

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A former professional footballer who played in Nigeria, Asia and Europe, Dankoli also brings playing experience to his new position.