Ex-Super Eagles star retires from football to pursue politics, join APC ahead of 2027 elections

Former Super Eagles defender Shehu Abdullahi has stepped away from professional football to begin a new chapter in politics, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 33-year-old is preparing to contest for a seat in Nigeria’s House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections.

Abdullahi is targeting the Sokoto North/Sokoto South Federal Constituency and plans to run under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

His move into politics follows a gradual shift into public service. Before now, he had already been working as a Special Assistant on Youth Mobilisation to the Sokoto State Commissioner for Sports, a role that brought him closer to grassroots development and governance.

His decision to enter politics has been confirmed by close associates, including former teammate Ahmed Garba, who revealed that Abdullahi has returned to Sokoto to focus fully on his political ambition. If successful in 2027, he would join a growing list of Nigerian athletes who have moved from sport into public office.

In Sokoto, Abdullahi is widely known beyond football. He has built a reputation as a mentor and community figure, particularly through youth programmes and football development initiatives. His annual Unity Cup competition and support for grassroots teams have helped nurture young talent while promoting peace and unity in the region.

Many see his political ambition as a natural extension of this work, using his influence to serve a wider public role.

Abdullahi: The making of the Super Eagle

Before turning to politics, Abdullahi enjoyed a long and successful football career that took him across Africa, Europe and the Middle East. The former full-back began his journey in Sokoto, playing for local sides before rising through the ranks in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

His breakthrough came at Kano Pillars, where he played a key role in one of the most dominant periods in the club’s history. Between 2012 and 2014, Kano Pillars won three consecutive league titles, with Abdullahi establishing himself as a reliable and energetic defender.

His performances earned him a move abroad in 2014, and he went on to play for clubs in several countries, including Qadsia SC in Kuwait, União da Madeira in Portugal, Bursaspor in Turkey, and AC Omonia and Anorthosis Famagusta in Cyprus. He also had a spell with Levski Sofia in Bulgaria, gaining valuable experience across different leagues and styles of play.

On the international stage, Abdullahi represented Nigeria at almost every level, from youth teams to the senior side. He earned 37 caps for the Super Eagles between 2014 and 2019, featuring at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and helping Nigeria secure a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympic Games. Known for his versatility and discipline, he was a dependable option in defence during his time with the national team.

In the later stages of his career, Abdullahi returned home to play once again for Kano Pillars during the 2024/25 season. The move was seen as both a homecoming and a way to give back to the domestic league, inspiring younger players and raising the profile of Nigerian football.

Now, with his playing days behind him, Abdullahi’s focus has shifted to public service.