NPFL: Rivers United captain Festus Austin retires from football at 34

By Wale Mustapha

Rivers United captain Festus Austin, has called it quit with active football career at the age of 34.

Austin, who is the longest serving player of Nigeria Premier Football League side, announced his retirement on Monday following 16 years with the Port Harcourt based club.

In a statement confirming the defender’s retirement, Rivers United disclosed that Austin will continue to play a role at the club, as he has been appointed new team coordinator.

He expressed delight to have enjoy a remarkable long spells in the game he loved so dearly just as he thanked the management of Rivers United for the support throughout his career.

“I can honestly say that playing football is all I have ever wanted to do, and to have had such a long and successful career at Rivers United is a real honour,” Austin told the club media.

“On my new role, I will continue to give my best towards the growth and success of the club.”

Nicknamed “Koboko”, Festus began his football career with Paulson Academy in Benin City, Edo State before joining Bendel Insurance in 2007.

The rock solid defender moved to Dolphins of Portharcourt in 2008 and was part of the team that won the Nigerian League title in 2011.

He was one of the pioneer members of Rivers United in 2016 formed from the old Dolphins and Sharks FC. As captain, he led Rivers United to their first NPFL title in 2022 and although not playing a major part in the team.