In a bid to reclaim their dominance in Nigerian football, 2021 league champions Akwa United have bolstered their squad with 17 new signings ahead of the 2024-25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
The club, known as the “Promise Keepers,” has brought in players from various clubs within and outside Nigeria, aiming to build a formidable team capable of challenging for top honours.
Among the new recruits is former national U-17 and U-20 utility player Charles Etim, who joins from Blessed Stars Football Club. Etim, known for his versatility, will add depth and experience to the squad. Other notable signings include striker Mare Abson from Societe ASPAC in Benin Republic, Ghanaian forward Paul Acquah from Al Anwar in Libya, and strikers Chijioke Alaekwe and Ruben Bala from Tayaran FC and Coton Sport FC, respectively.
The club has also strengthened its goalkeeping department with the acquisition of Ghanaian shot-stopper Seidu Mutawakilu from Rivers United and former Heartland FC goalkeeper Darlington Ovunda. In defense, the team welcomes left-back Ubong Williams from Katsina United, centre-back Ebedebiri Endurance from Rivers United, and right-back Eric Oguocha from Plateau United.
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Midfield reinforcements include Samuel Mathew from Doma United, Chiamaka Madu from Rivers United, and Olakunle Akala from Nasarawa United. The midfield is further bolstered by Kunle Oyetosho from De-Carddendal FC and Agu Samuel from Giant Brillars FC. Defensive solidity is provided by Ferinyaro Abdullahi from Gateway FC and Stephen Wisdom from Bendel Insurance.
Head coach Muhammed Baba Ganaru has expressed confidence in his new squad, describing the players as core professionals with the necessary skills and quality to lead Akwa United to glory in the upcoming season.
Akwa United will kick off their 2024-25 NPFL campaign against Lobi Stars at the Lafia City Stadium on Saturday, September 7, 2024. The club’s fans will be eagerly watching to see how these new signings blend with the existing squad as they aim to reclaim their status as one of Nigeria’s top football clubs.
