Nigerian Amputee footballers sign historic contracts with Turkish clubs

By Dayo Awoniyi

In a historic milestone for Nigerian amputee football, several players have secured professional contracts with top Turkish clubs, opening a new chapter for the sport’s growth and development in Nigeria.

Abba Musa and Olaogun Bolaji David have joined Gebze Gucu Engelliler Spor Kulübü, while Friday Habu has signed with Sakarya Bedensel Engelliler Spor Kulübü.

These players are following in the footsteps of previous Nigerian amputee footballers who have already made a name for themselves in Turkey.

This achievement is a result of the relentless efforts of Ambassador Paul Maduakor, President of the Nigeria Amputee Football Federation, who has been instrumental in advancing the sport and creating international opportunities for Nigerian players.

“The initiative strengthens our national team, as seen in the last Nations Cup, where the few professionals in the squad played a vital role in our 4th-place finish, which qualified us for next year’s World Cup,” said Coach Victor Nnewne, Technical Director of the Nigeria Amputee Football Federation.

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The federation is also focused on establishing a National Amputee Football League in Nigeria, aimed at keeping home-based players active and ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the national team, the Special Eagles.

Nigeria’s national team captain, Sarafadeen Olalekan Oyeleke, expressed his excitement over the increasing number of Nigerian amputee footballers securing professional contracts in Turkey.

“This was our dream to open doors for more Nigerian players in professional amputee football. Seeing this happen now proves that our efforts, alongside the vision of Ambassador Paul Maduakor, are paying off,” Oyeleke said.

With more Nigerian amputee footballers making their mark internationally, the future of the sport in Nigeria looks increasingly bright.