Rivers United forward, Aniekeme Okon, has explained why he celebrated after scoring against his former club, Remo Stars, in the season-opening fixture of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The highly anticipated curtain raiser took place at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta, where fans witnessed a dramatic contest that ended in a 1-1 draw between two of the league’s strongest sides.
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Okon struck early in the 3rd minute, latching onto a loose ball inside the box to put the visitors ahead.
His goal not only gave Rivers United a strong start but also went down as the first goal of the new NPFL campaign, a moment he described as unforgettable.
Speaking after the encounter, the striker admitted he did not intend to celebrate out of respect for Remo Stars, a club where he previously played.
However, the significance of the goal made it impossible to hold back his emotions.
“Yeah, I must say it was an important goal for me, and the fact that it was against Remo Stars, my former club, made it more emotional. I respect them a lot,” Okon said.
“I didn’t intend to celebrate, but being the first goal of the season, and knowing I’m now part of that history, it was a delight. I’m so happy about it.”
Remo Stars responded quickly through Victor Mbaoma, who equalised in the 9th minute with a composed finish, sending the home crowd into celebration.
Unfortunately, Mbaoma picked up an injury shortly after and was replaced by Adama Goita.
The game remained fiercely contested, with both sides creating chances but unable to find a winner.
The closing moments produced further drama when Rivers United’s Temple Emekayi was shown a straight red card in stoppage time, making him the first player to be sent off this season.
At full-time, both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils, but it was Okon’s early strike and celebration that became the major talking point, ensuring his name will be remembered in NPFL history as the scorer of the 2025/2026 season’s opening goal.
