The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has long been seen as a stepping stone for players aiming to ply their trade abroad.
However, since the 1990s, a notable trend has emerged: several Super Eagles stars, after achieving varying degrees of success overseas, have opted to return home to reignite their careers or, in some cases, wind them down.
These returns reflect a broader pattern seen globally, such as South American and Asian footballers finishing their careers in their domestic leagues after illustrious spells in Europe.
Below are some notable Nigerian players who have returned to the Nigerian topflight.
Ahmed Musa
The former Leicester City forward is one of the most high-profile Super Eagles players to consistently return to the NPFL.
Musa first played in the domestic league during his formative years before securing a move abroad. Years later, after leaving Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr, he made a headline-grabbing return to Kano Pillars, where he once again thrilled fans with his dynamic play from the left flank.
The Super Eagles captain's impact extends far beyond the pitch. At just 32, the winger's presence has brought a new level of attention to the NPFL.
Home and away matches featuring Kano Pillars have seen packed stadiums, with fans eager to catch a glimpse of their national hero in action.
Shehu Abdullahi
Shehu also made a significant return to the NPFL, joining Kano Pillars as a free agent in 2024. The former Super Eagles right-back had been without a club since leaving Bulgarian side Levski Sofia earlier in 2023.
Rather than waiting for another European opportunity, Sheu opted to return to the club where his professional journey began.
Having previously played for clubs like Bursaspor and Qadsia SC, his experience and defensive solidity have made him a key figure for Kano Pillars, who continue to benefit from his leadership on and off the pitch.
Brown Ideye
Former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye made a return to the NPFL in 2024 by signing with nine-time champions Enyimba. At 36, Ideye had been without a club since leaving Kuwaiti side Al Yarmouk in 2022.
His move back to Nigeria marked the end of a 17-year absence from the league, during which he enjoyed a storied career in Europe and the Middle East, playing for clubs such as West Bromwich Albion, Dynamo Kyiv, and Olympiacos.
His presence has bolstered Enyimba’s attacking options and brought veteran experience to their squad as they challenge for domestic honors.
Rashidi Yekini
Even the late Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria's all-time leading scorer, found his way back to the NPFL toward the end of his career.
After spending 15 years playing abroad, Yekini joined Julius Berger in the 2002/03 season at the age of 39. He later played for Gateway FC, where he continued to show his goal-scoring prowess by netting seven goals in 26 appearances.
Yekini’s return was a fitting conclusion to a legendary career that saw him feature for clubs like Vitoria Setubal, Olympiacos, and Sporting Gijón. His journey back to Nigeria was a reminder of the NPFL’s enduring appeal to players who have achieved global success.
Godfrey Oboabona
The former Super Eagles defender returned to Sunshine Stars in 2024 for a second stint, 11 years after leaving the NPFL for Europe.
The 33-year-old, who had been clubless since departing Georgian side Dinamo Batumi in 2020, signed a short-term deal to bolster the Owena Waves' defense during the 2023/2024 season.
Oboabona previously starred for Sunshine Stars during their continental campaigns and was a vital part of Nigeria's 2013 AFCON-winning squad and continental success.
