The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) stands atop the Nigerian Football League System, overseen by the League Management Company (LMC). Comprising 20 clubs, the league unfolds across 38 match days each season.
Initially known as the Nigerian Premier League, its inception in 1972 saw Jos-based side Mighty Jets emerge as the inaugural top-flight champions. Having a rich history, the NPFL has consistently been a breeding ground for some of Africa’s finest football talents.
From iconic figures like Kanu Nwankwo to the illustrious John Mikel Obi, the NPFL has played a key role in shaping the trajectories of some of Africa’s finest players, leaving an indelible mark on the global football stage.
Yet, amid the league’s evolution, lots of players have not only excelled but have also become synonymous with NPFL greatness.
This article meticulously lists out 20 of the best players in the NPFL, shedding light on how they have not only distinguished themselves within the confines of the league but have also transcended its borders.
- 1. Victor Ezeji
- 2. Rabiu Ali
- 3. Mfon Udoh
- 4. Jude Aneke
- 5. Anthony Okpotu
- 6. Vincent Enyeama
- 7. Endurance Idahor
- 8. Ahmed Musa
- 9. Gbolahan Salami
- 10. Bartholomew Ikechukwu Ibenegbu
- 11. Junior Lokosa
- 12. Kabiru Alausa
- 13. Ikechukwu Ezenwa
- 14. Theophilus Afelokhai
- 15. Mohammed Gambo
- 16. Peter Ijeh
- 17. Rashidi Yekini
- 18. Segun Odegbami
- 19. Ishaya Jatau
- 20. Richard Ojomo
1. Victor Ezeji
Victor Ezeji, a renowned Nigerian football striker, ended his playing career with Crown F.C., establishing himself as one of the most successful and enduring players in the league.
Throughout his tenure in the Nigerian league, Ezeji not only demonstrated a remarkable ability to score goals but also established himself as a reliable and skilled striker, earning widespread recognition as one of the league’s standout players.
Ezeji holds the record of being the most decorated player in the domestic league, having a stellar career that spanned two decades and featured several trophies and personal accolades.
With a total of 148 goals scored before his retirement, he left an enduring impact on Nigerian football.
A graduate in accounting, Ezeji enjoyed a remarkable football career in the league, contributing to the success of renowned teams such as Enyimba, Dolphins, and Heartlands, among others.
His achievements include winning two CAF Champions League titles with Enyimba in 2003, winning the Federations Cup, and claiming league titles with Dolphins in 2006-2007.
His stellar performances led to him being named the ‘Most Valuable Player in the League and the Federations Cup’ in the same remarkable year at Dolphins.
2. Rabiu Ali
Rabiu Ali stands as a highly respected figure in the Nigerian Professional Football League, earning recognition as one of the league’s top-tier players.
Functioning as a midfielder for Kano Pillars F.C., he not only holds the current captaincy but is also celebrated as one of the club’s all-time greats and among the league’s finest talents.
His football journey started with Nassarawa United of Lafiya before making a big move to Kano Pillars in 2009.
As the linchpin of the team, Rabiu Ali’s leadership has been instrumental in steering Kano Pillars to success, and his role as the club’s captain has been sustained over several impactful years.
Rabiu Ali’s impact transcends local competitions, with crucial contributions leading Kano Pillars F.C. to triumph both on domestic soil and in international arenas.
His adept skill set and unwavering commitment have positioned him not only as a key contributor but also as a respected figure among teammates and adversaries.
His list of achievements with Kano Pillars F.C. includes three NPFL titles in the seasons 2011–12, 2012–13, and 2013–14.
Rabiu Ali played a key role in winning the Nigeria FA Cup championship in 2019, and he played a vital part in the team’s runner-up finish in 2018.
3. Mfon Udoh
Mfon is a talented forward playing for Bashundhara Kings in the Bangladesh Premier League and representing the Nigeria national team.
He started his career at Diamond Stars Academy and then with Calabar (UNICEM) Rovers in the Nigeria National League, a club associated with Finidi George.
In his first season with Rovers (2011-2012), Mfon scored 8 goals, finishing as the top scorer in all competitions.
Known for his speed, good positioning, and natural finishing, he’s described as a complete forward and a tough player to stop in the penalty area.
Mfon holds the record for the most goals in a single season in the Nigerian Premier Football League and was the first player to score over 35 goals in two consecutive seasons in Nigeria, totaling 41 goals between 2012 and 2014.
He also shone on the continental stage, becoming the top scorer in the 2016 CAF Champions League with nine goals, all scored in the group stage.
His achievements include being the top scorer in the 2013-2014 Nigerian Premier League.
Enyimba’s top scorer in the same period, and received awards like the Nigerian League Bloggers (Monthly) Award in August 2013, NPFL Player of the Year Award in 2014, and Nigerian League Bloggers Player of the Season for 2013-2014.
Mfon’s goal-scoring skills have left a lasting impact on both domestic and continental football.
4. Jude Aneke
Jude Aneke, a skilled professional footballer, currently plies his trade in Nigeria as a forward, specializing in the attacking role. He is presently associated with the Nigerian football club, Ikorodu United F.C.
Aneke started his career with Young Planners FC and Ebonyi Angels F.C. before making a move to Anambra United.
His journey continued as he joined Kaduna United during the 2009-10 season, proving his goal-scoring prowess with 13 goals in all competitions, including 10 in the league.
He played a vital role in winning the 2010 Nigerian FA Cup with the club.
In November 2011, Aneke made headlines by breaking Ahmed Musa’s year-old record, scoring his 19th and 20th goals in league play. Shortly after, he received a call-up to the Nigeria national football team, replacing the injured Peter Odemwingie.
Aneke’s football ventures extended to Warri Wolves in 2012 and a subsequent transfer to Al-Masry in Egypt in August of the same year.
His talents garnered interest from Turkish Premier League clubs and Romanian giants Rapid Bucarest.
In July 2014, Aneke signed with Kazakhstan Premier League side FC Spartak Semey.
Returning to Nigeria in June 2016, he joined Plateau United, and in 2017, he became part of Ikorodu United.
Aneke has been a key figure in their recent successes, contributing important goals to the team. His talent and contributions suggest that he will likely remain a crucial part of the team in the upcoming years.
5. Anthony Okpotu
Anthony Okpotu, a Nigerian professional forward, has built a commendable career playing for various clubs, including Kano Pillars, Enyimba, and Lobi Stars.
Renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, Okpotu has consistently delivered impressive performances, making him a key player for both his club and the Nigerian national team.
Born in Makurdi, Okpotu began his early club football journey with Lobi Stars and Al-Ittihad Tripoli.
In April 2018, he underwent a trial at Danish club Brøndby, showcasing his ambition on the international stage. He later joined Morocco’s Difaâ Hassani El Jadidi in July 2018, and in January 2019, he was loaned to Albanian club KF Laçi.
In a notable move on October 10, 2020, Okpotu signed with Qatari club Qatar SC, further expanding his global football experience. His journey continued as on July 28, 2023, he joined Saudi First Division side Al-Ain.
Okpotu is not only for his scoring ability but also for his exceptional dribbling skills.
His knack for navigating past defenders and creating goal-scoring opportunities adds significant value to any team he represents. With his experience, talent, and versatility, Anthony Okpotu remains a valuable asset in football.
6. Vincent Enyeama
Vincent Enyeama, a retired Nigerian professional goalkeeper, defied conventional height expectations for his position but is widely recognized as one of the greatest African goalkeepers of his era.
Over his impressive nearly 20-year senior career, Enyeama showcased his goalkeeping prowess with clubs such as Ibom Stars, Enyimba, Iwuanyanwu Nationale, Bnei Yehuda, Hapoel Tel Aviv, Lille, and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
His international journey with the Nigeria national team spanned from 2002 to October 2015, during which he served as the team’s captain from 2013 until his retirement.
With 101 caps, he held the title of Nigeria’s most capped player until November 2021 when Ahmed Musa surpassed his record.
Enyeama’s success with Enyimba International F.C. included winning the CAF Champions League twice, a notable fact being his consistent substitution before penalty shootouts.
After stints with Enyimba and Iwuanyanwu Nationale (now Heartland F.C.), he moved to the Israeli club Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv, where his impactful presence helped the team qualify for the 2006 UEFA Cup.
Throughout his illustrious career, Enyeama earned several accolades, including domestic league triumphs with Nigerian Premier League titles in 2001, 2002, and 2003, and CAF Champions League victories in 2003 and 2004 with Enyimba.
He continued his success in Israel, winning the Israeli Premier League in the 2009–10 season with Hapoel Tel-Aviv and the Israeli Premier League in the 2012–13 season with Maccabi Tel-Aviv.
On the international stage, Enyeama contributed to Nigeria’s success by winning the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2013.
His legacy is not only defined by his exceptional goalkeeping skills but also by his resilience, leadership, and significant contributions to Nigerian football.
7. Endurance Idahor
Endurance Idahor was a talented Nigerian professional footballer who had the ambition of playing at the highest level. He chose to take his career to Sudan, signing for Al-Merreikh, a Sudanese club.
Endurance Idahor, a skilled Nigerian footballer, had big dreams in the sport. To boost his career, he decided to play for Al-Merreikh, a famous team in Sudan.
In 2003, Idahor made a strong impression in the NPFL, sharing the top scorer title with 12 goals while playing for Julius Berger.
He continued his journey in 2005 with Dolphins FC.
His talents also led him to play for a while at Al Nasr in the UAE in January 2008. Upon returning, he became the top scorer, helping Al-Merrikh reach their first CAF Confederation Cup final since 1989.
Idahor also played for the U-23 Nigeria national football team.
Unfortunately, on March 6, 2010, during a game, Idahor collapsed. Despite immediate medical help, he couldn’t be saved and passed away on the way to the hospital.
Endurance Idahor’s sudden death was a shock to the football world, taking away a promising talent known for his skill and passion. His story is a reminder of life’s fragility, and he will be remembered for the joy and talent he brought to the game.
8. Ahmed Musa
Ahmed Musa is a versatile player, operating as a forward and left winger for the Turkish Süper Lig club Sivasspor and representing the Nigeria national team.
His professional journey began in 2008 when he was loaned to JUTH F.C., where he showcased his talent by playing 18 games and scoring four goals in his first two seasons with the Healers.
Subsequently, he moved to Kano Pillars F.C. for the 2009–10 season, setting a league record with crucial goals that contributed to Pillars finishing in the second position.
Musa initially held the record for the highest goals scored in a single season in the history of the League until November 2011 when Jude Aneke of Kaduna United F.C. set a new record of 20 goals.
Musa made history as the first Nigerian to score more than once in a FIFA World Cup match, achieving this feat by scoring twice against Argentina in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
He continued to make headlines as the first Nigerian to score in two FIFA World Cup competitions, achieving this against Iceland in the group stage of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
With 108 appearances, he became Nigeria’s most-capped player as of November 2021.
Musa was part of the Al Nassr squad that secured victory in the Saudi Premier League and Saudi Super Cup in 2019.
After a stint with Nigerian club Kano Pillars until the end of the 2020–21 season, Musa signed a two-year deal with Turkish club Sivasspor on a free transfer on September 2, 2022.
9. Gbolahan Salami
Currently playing as a forward for Al-Taraf, a football club based in Saudi Arabia. Salami is widely recognized for his exceptional talent on the field.
His football journey began with Sunshine Stars F.C. before making a move to Shooting Stars F.C. in Ibadan.
In 2010, Salami faced suspension by the league due to the use of threatening language after scoring in a game against his former team.
The 2014 season saw him join Warri Wolves, where, with ten games remaining, he stood second in scoring with an impressive 13 league goals. In January 2015, Salami made a significant move to the Serbian side Red Star Belgrade, signing a loan deal for the remainder of the season with an option for a permanent deal.
However, he returned to Warri less than two months later due to financial issues faced by Red Star.
Salami was part of the Nigeria national under-20 football team at the 2009 African Youth Championship.
Then, he was part of the Nigeria national under-23 football team during their failed attempt to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics. In January 2014, coach Stephen Keshi invited him to be a part of the Nigeria national football team for the 2014 African Nations Championship.
He scored the only goal for the Home-based Eagles in their opening 2–1 loss to Mali.
10. Bartholomew Ikechukwu Ibenegbu
Known as “Mosquito,” Ibenegbu is currently a key player for Enugu Rangers FC, operating as an attacking midfielder and standing out as one of the most popular figures in the Nigerian Professional Football League.
His nickname, Mosquito, stems from his slender appearance and relentless tenacity on the field.
Before his stint with Heartland, Ibenegbu had a short stint with Enyimba F.C. and El-Kanemi Warriors.
Ibenegbu is recognized for his persistent dribbling runs that consistently unsettle opposing defense lines.
His accurate shooting and keen eye for goal make him a standout player in the. He earned the highest scorer award in 2006 with El Kanemi Warriors, accumulating a career total of 48 goals and 55 assists.
A key part of Enyimba’s success, Ibenegbu played an important role in winning the 2019 league title with an outstanding performance at the Super Six playoffs earlier in the year.
Beyond his contributions in the domestic league, Ibenegbu has represented the Nigeria national beach soccer team since 2006.
While he didn’t make the final team for the 2007 Under-23 camp ahead of the Beijing Olympics, Ibenegbu was called up to the Super Eagles camp for the 2010 African Cup of Nations, making him one of only three home-based players to participate in the continental competition.
He made his debut as a substitute in the January 2012 friendly against Angola.
11. Junior Lokosa
Currently playing for Sporting Lagos F.C., a Nigerian football club based in Lagos, Lokosa is a forward renowned for his strong presence on the field and goal-scoring prowess.
His aggressive style of play and adeptness at using the full width of the pitch make him a dynamic force.
Lokosa is also recognized for his ability to synergize with teammates, contributing to the creation of effective attacking plays.
His football journey began with First Bank before making a move to Kano Pillars in May 2017, where he showcased his scoring abilities with five goals in 14 league games by the end of the 2017 season.
Lokosa’s outstanding goal-scoring record earned him the Eunisell Boot Award at the end of the season, securing the top spot on the NPFL scoring charts with 19 goals.
Amid the 2018 season, Lokosa demonstrated exceptional performance by scoring 14 goals in 15 matches. He attracted attention during trials with Bulgarian club Ludogorets and Norwegian club Brann in May 2018.
After trials in China, he joined Espérance Sportive de Tunis in January 2019, signing a two-and-a-half-year contract. Following his stint in Tunisia, Lokosa moved to Saudi Second Division side Al-Rayyan on August 5, 2022.
Lokosa made his international debut for Nigeria in a friendly against DR Congo on May 28, 2018.
Recognizing his impressive form with Kano Pillars, he was named in the 30-man provisional squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, although he did not make the final 23.
12. Kabiru Alausa
Alausa, a retired footballer, made a name for himself as a forward, showcasing his skills across various clubs during his playing career.
His journey began with Julius Berger, where he emerged as the top scorer of the NPFL in 2004, netting an impressive 13 goals for the season.
Subsequently, he joined Sunshine Stars and contributed to their efforts until the 2007 season.
Alausa’s football ventures continued with a stint at Heartland, where he played a role in the club’s runner-up position in the 2009 CAF Champions League, despite missing several matches while on trial in Europe.
Following a return to Sunshine Stars and a concluding chapter with Shooting Stars, Alausa gracefully retired from active play.
Transitioning into coaching, he currently serves as an assistant coach at the Nigerian club Shooting Stars.
He is widely respected for his professionalism and dedication to the sport. His commitment extends beyond the pitch, as he is known for helping young players develop their skills and guiding teams toward their goals.
He stands as a shining example of a successful footballer whose passion and dedication have allowed him to make a lasting impact on the game, even after his playing days have concluded.
13. Ikechukwu Ezenwa
Ezenwa started his professional football career with Ocean Boys before making a move to Heartland FC in July 2008.
Subsequently, he joined Ifeanyi Ubah FC in 2016, and after the conclusion of his contract in 2017, he made a transfer to Enyimba. After his stint with Enyimba ended in 2018, he embarked on a new journey with Katsina United on January 1, 2019.
During his time with Sunshine Stars F.C. from 2013 to 2016, Ezenwa received significant goalkeeping training and development from the respected coach, Daramola Nicholas Akinsehinwa.
This training played a key role in improving his skills and contributing to his potential.
It was this development that paved the way for Ezenwa’s inclusion in the Nigeria Super Eagles squad, and he was part of the team at the 2014 World Cup.
Ezenwa’s journey continued, and in 2015, under the guidance of Coach Sunday Oliseh, he earned a call-up to the Nigeria Super Eagles.
Following an injury to Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, Ezenwa took on the role as the first-choice goalkeeper for the Super Eagles in World Cup and Nations Cup qualifications, as appointed by coach Gernot Rohr.
His standout goalkeeping abilities were particularly evident during Nigeria’s back-to-back matches against the ‘indomitable lions’ of Cameroon in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
14. Theophilus Afelokhai
Joel Theophilus Afelokhai is a highly accomplished Nigerian professional footballer who has made a name for himself as a goalkeeper.
He has won multiple Nigeria Professional Football League titles throughout his career, playing for Kano Pillars, Enyimba, and Rivers United.
Afelokhai has achieved great success and earned a reputation as one of the top goalkeepers in African football. He began his career with Kano Pillars in 2009, where he quickly established himself as a reliable goalkeeper.
During his three-year stay at Kano Pillars, Afelokhai won the NPFL in the 2009/2010 season.
He then moved to Enyimba in 2012 and helped the team to win the Nigeria Professional Football League again in the 2014/2015 season.
In 2016, he signed with Rivers United and went on to have a successful career, winning the Nigeria Professional Football League title in the 2018/2019 season.
Afelokhai has also achieved success in the continental arena, helping Enyimba to win the CAF Confederation Cup in 2015.
He has played a key role in the success of his teams, making crucial saves and using his experience and leadership to guide younger players. Joel Theophilus Afelokhai is a leader on and off the pitch and is one of the most decorated Nigerian professional footballers.
His achievements demonstrate his commitment to excellence and his dedication to the game.
15. Mohammed Gambo
Fondly known as the “Kalifath” (the Ageless War Horse), Gambo possesses remarkable speed and serves as a formidable and combative attacker with considerable firepower.
Despite not winning the top scorer award in the Nigerian Professional Football League, Gambo achieved runner-up positions in 2010, 2012, and 2014.
His goal tally exceeds 60 in domestic league competitions, and he has contributed one international goal for the home base Eagles.
Gambo joined Kano Pillars from Buffalo F.C. in 2006 and has become a sensation for his current club, amassing over 60 goals in league and cup competitions.
In 2012, Gambo’s outstanding performance, with 15 goals in the Nigerian league season and 5 in the Cup, garnered attention from Turkish club Samsunspor, where he was expected to replace Ekigho Ehiosun.
Additionally, there were negotiations with Tunisian club Club Africain in July 2013, though they eventually fell through. However, post-2015, his career faced challenges due to injury.
Gambo received a call-up to the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, by former coach Samson Siasia for a tournament in America. Unfortunately, he couldn’t make his debut as the competition was canceled.
In March 2013, Gambo served as an unused substitute in a 1–1 draw against the Kenya national football team during the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification (CAF) in Nigeria.
Later that June, Nigerian coach Stephen Keshi selected him for the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, where he was one of the eight locally based players on the list, earning recognition as one of the premier strikers in the NPFL in recent seasons.
Even at 35 years old, Gambo has picked up his career and firing on all cylinders again.
16. Peter Ijeh
Ijeh, a former professional footballer, left a solid mark on the pitch with his notable speed, agility, determination, and prolific goal-scoring ability.
His journey began with clubs like NiTel United Lagos, where he showed his talent and earned the highest goal scorer award with Julius Berger FC in the NPFL.
In 2001, Ijeh made a big move to Swedish club Malmö FF, becoming the top scorer in Allsvenskan in 2002 with an impressive 24 goals.
Despite a leg injury in 2003, he displayed resilience by making a strong comeback and finishing the season with 10 goals.
In a controversial transfer, Ijeh joined IFK Göteborg in late 2003, marking a moment for the club’s 100th anniversary. Subsequently, he made another impactful move to Danish club FC Copenhagen in 2005, contributing to their league title win in the 2005–06 season.
Internationally, Ijeh represented the Nigerian National Team and played a role in their triumph at the African Nations Cup in 1994.
He was also part of the Nigerian squad at the 1996 Olympic Games. Recognized as a forward with a keen eye for goal, Ijeh was known for his incisive runs, ability to create chances, and scoring prowess from various angles.
His goal-scoring abilities were evident both with his head and feet, making him a constant threat in the air and a challenge for opposing defenders.
17. Rashidi Yekini
Rashidi Yekini began his professional football journey in the Nigerian league before making a big move to Ivory Coast to join Africa Sports National.
Subsequently, he continued his career in Portugal with Vitória de Setúbal, where he achieved notable success.
Yekini’s most memorable years came during the 1993–94 season when he became the top scorer in the Primeira Liga, netting 21 goals. In the previous season, he scored a career-best 34 goals in 32 games, playing a key role in Setúbal’s promotion from the second division.
His outstanding performances earned Yekini the title of African Footballer of the Year, a historic achievement for Nigeria.
In the summer of 1994, he signed with Greek club Olympiacos, but his time there was short-lived due to conflicts with teammates. Despite returning to Setúbal and a subsequent stint in La Liga with Sporting de Gijón, Yekini’s career faced challenges.
He played for various clubs, including FC Zürich, Club Athlétique Bizertin, and Al-Shabab Riyadh, before rejoining Africa Sports. At the age of 39, he made a return to the Nigerian championship with Julius Berger FC in 2003.
In April 2005, at the age of 41, Yekini briefly came out of retirement, joining Gateway United FC alongside former national teammate Mobi Oparaku.
Scoring a remarkable 37 goals for Nigeria in 62 appearances, Yekini holds the national record for goals scored.
He was a key part of the Nigerian team in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, notably scoring Nigeria’s first-ever goal in a World Cup during the 1994 tournament in a 3–0 win against Bulgaria.
18. Segun Odegbami
Segun Odegbami stands as one of the greatest players in the history of the NPFL, having dedicated his entire career to IICC Shooting Stars of Ibadan from 1970 to 1984.
His remarkable achievements include winning the Nigerian Premier League title in 1976, 1980, and 1983.
Odegbami’s impact extended to the international stage, making 47 appearances for the Nigerian national team and scoring 22 goals.
He played a key role in guiding the national team to its first Africa Cup of Nations title at the 1980 tournament held in Nigeria.
Affectionately nicknamed “Mathematical,” Odegbami was renowned for his exceptional skills on the ball, remarkable speed, and precision in delivering crosses from the right wing.
He attended and graduated from Nigeria’s premier technical institution, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where he studied engineering. This unique nickname reflects not only his prowess on the football field but also his academic achievements.
Segun Odegbami’s legacy as one of the NPFL’s finest players and a key figure in Nigerian football history remains etched in the history of the NPFL, symbolizing skill, loyalty, and a commitment to excellence.
19. Ishaya Jatau
20. Richard Ojomo
Other Notable Best Players In The NPFL
- Arthur Moses
- Tony Nwigwe
- Olumide Harris
- Peter Anyiolobi
- Orok Akarandut
- Godwin Obaje
- Ben Agawam
- Hassan Minna
- Uche Okereke
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