Nigerian Players Reach Big Milestones in 2026

Nigerian sportsmen have hit major milestones in their careers in 2026. From career goals to international caps, these athletes have made their mark, writes PETER AKINBO.

Tolu Arokodare scored his 100th career goal in Ajax’s 2-0 win over Atalanta in the UEFA Conference League on October 22. The Nigerian striker came off the bench to score the first goal before Abdellah Ouazane added another in stoppage time. Arokodare celebrated on social media, thanking God and everyone who has supported him. His goals have come from playing in Latvia, France, Belgium, England and the Netherlands.

Ademola Lookman also reached his 100th career goal during his debut for Atletico Madrid. He helped his new team crush Real Betis 5-0 in the Copa del Rey quarter-final in February. Lookman, who joined Atletico from Atalanta in the winter transfer window, also assisted Antoine Griezmann. This milestone came after successful stints in various European leagues, especially in Italy, where he became one of Nigeria’s top attacking players.

Taiwo Awoniyi celebrated his 100th appearance for Nottingham Forest with two goals in their 3-1 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in May. He started the scoring with a header and then added another goal in the second half. Awoniyi joined Forest from Union Berlin in 2022. Although injuries have slowed him down, his performance against Chelsea showed he can make a difference when fit.

In June, Alex Iwobi reached 100 appearances for Nigeria, becoming the fourth player to do so for the Super Eagles. He marked this milestone in an international friendly against Portugal. Iwobi joined Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama and Ahmed Musa in this exclusive group. He also reached 100 Premier League appearances for three clubs, Arsenal, Everton and Fulham, showing his steady presence in English football. At 30, he is a key player for both his club and the national team.

Calvin Bassey hit 100 Premier League appearances in October, joining the list of Nigerian players who have achieved this in England's top league. He reached the milestone against Ipswich Town. Bassey has also played over 100 games for Fulham in all competitions. Since moving to Fulham from Ajax in 2023, he has become an important defender, known for his strength and ability to move the ball forward.

Nathan Tella made his 100th appearance for Bayer Leverkusen in their 2-1 Bundesliga win over Cologne in April, where he assisted Patrik Schick. The Nigerian winger joined Leverkusen from Southampton in 2023 and was part of the squad that won the Bundesliga title unbeaten in the 2023/24 season. His hard work and versatility have made him a valuable player as he looks for more playing time.

Moses Simon reached his 100th appearance for Nigeria in September during the Super Eagles’ 2-1 win against Madagascar. He became the fifth Nigerian to reach this milestone, joining Iwobi, Musa, Yobo and Enyeama. Simon has been a consistent member of the national team, known for his speed and attacking skills. He moved to Paris FC in 2025 after leaving Nantes.

Godwin Obaje scored his 100th goal in the Nigeria Premier Football League during Rangers International’s 1-0 win over Warri Wolves in September. He converted an early penalty to join Victor Ezeji and Rabiu Ali in the league’s 100-goal club. Obaje has scored for several clubs, including Wikki Tourists, FC Ifeanyi Ubah, Plateau United, Abia Warriors and Rangers. He also won the NPFL Golden Boot with Wikki Tourists in 2016.