Mohammed Mukhtar: Nigerian defender joins Rivers United from Kano Pillars

Rivers United have signed Nigeria centre-back Mohammed Mukhtar from Kano Pillars, adding the 22-year-old to their defensive ranks ahead of the new Nigeria Premier Football League campaign.

Mukhtar, a right-footed central defender standing at 1.88m, arrives after establishing himself as a regular in the NPFL. He moves to the Port Harcourt club following a year at Kano Pillars, whom he joined from Kanemi Warriors in July 2025.

The deal continues a rapid rise for the Abakaliki-born defender, whose performances have earned him a market valuation of around €50,000. While contract details have not been made public, Rivers United have secured a player with significant top-flight experience for his age.

Mukhtar has already made more than 60 league appearances in the NPFL, contributing one goal and one assist and amassing over 5,000 minutes of action. He also has experience in continental competition, having featured in the CAF Confederation Cup, where he has completed two full matches.

His arrival bolsters a Rivers United side that has regularly competed at the top end of the NPFL and represented Nigeria in CAF competitions in recent seasons. Mukhtar’s physical presence and familiarity with the league are expected to strengthen the club’s options in central defence.

The transfer was completed on 20 July 2026, with Mukhtar officially switching from Kano Pillars to Rivers United.