Former Super Eagles shot-stopper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, has once again extended his support to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) by rewarding outstanding goalkeepers and trainers from the just-concluded 2024/2025 season.
In recognition of top performances between the sticks, Jimoh Abdul of Rangers International and Obassa of Remo Stars were jointly named Best Goalkeepers of the season, each earning a ₦100,000 cash prize after keeping 15 clean sheets — the most in the campaign.
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The event also honored the coaching staff behind the scenes. Coach Dahiru Ilu and Coach Anthony Donwa were named Best Goalkeeper Coaches and received ₦50,000 each in appreciation of their vital contributions to the development of top-tier goalkeepers in the league.
In addition, Ezekiel Clinton of Bayelsa United was recognized as the Best Rookie Goalkeeper, earning ₦50,000, courtesy of a sponsorship jointly provided by former goalkeepers John Dosu and Femi Thomas.
The initiative was lauded by members of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) WhatsApp Group, consisting of coaches, goalkeepers, and league administrators.
In a joint message, the group expressed heartfelt appreciation to Ezenwa and his fellow sponsors for supporting the development of goalkeepers through both weekly and end-of-season awards.
This marks the second consecutive year the awards have been presented, with the addition of new categories and an increased prize pool, signaling a growing commitment to nurturing goalkeeping talent within the league.
Speaking exclusively to Sports247.ng, group head admin John Dosu thanked Ezenwa for championing the initiative:
“We appreciate the major sponsor of the award, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, for looking out for NPFL goalkeepers and instituting both the weekly and end-of-season recognitions. These awards boost morale and give younger goalkeepers a platform to showcase their abilities consistently.”
Ezenwa also shared his thoughts on the impact of the awards:
“It’s encouraging to see how these recognitions are helping young goalkeepers improve, regardless of their team’s standing. I want them to stay in top shape and keep pushing forward—the future is bright for Nigerian goalkeeping.”
The increased scope of the awards underscores the growing emphasis on goalkeeper development in Nigeria’s top-flight football, as stakeholders continue to invest in the next generation of talent.
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