Chijioke Ejiogu Makes Remarkable Comeback to NPFL at 41

Veteran goalkeeper Chijioke Ejiogu has made a remarkable return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the age of 41, helping Kun Khalifat FC secure a 1-0 victory against Bayelsa United.

Ejiogu, who has a rich history in football having played for prominent clubs such as Enyimba, Julius Berger, FC Ifeanyi Ubah, Heartland, and Dolphins, came out of retirement nearly eight years after departing from the domestic top flight to join the Owerri-based team.

Known affectionately as "Arugo Monkey," Ejiogu's last appearance in the NPFL was during the 2018 season with Heartland. On Sunday, he put forth an exceptional display in his debut for Kun Khalifat, making vital saves that thwarted Bayelsa United's efforts throughout the encounter.

The turning point of the match came with Uchechukwu Onuoha's goal in the 45th minute, but it was Ejiogu’s stellar goalkeeping that ensured his team walked away with all three points. Bayelsa United pressed for an equaliser, mounting numerous attacks, yet the seasoned goalkeeper consistently repelled their advances with assertive punches, parries, and catches.

Ejiogu stands as one of the most successful figures in Nigerian domestic football, having won seven FA Cup titles across four different clubs — including Julius Berger (2002), Dolphins (2004, 2006, 2007), Enyimba (2009, 2014), and Heartland (2012).

Additionally, he has clinched three NPFL league titles with Dolphins (2004) and Enyimba (2009 and 2015), along with two Super Cup championships with Julius Berger (2004) and Enyimba (2010).

Following the match, Ejiogu shared his thoughts, expressing delight over the win and his personal performance, which he noted was well-received by the fans.

"I’m happy with our win today and of course with my performance, which the fans are happy about," he stated, indicating that a more extensive interview would follow after training. “I’m even happier that we won the game. Hopefully we’ll talk tomorrow.”