Ahmed Musa’s Return to Kano Pillars Sparks NPFL Revival as Top Nigerian Stars Eye Local Football

The return of Super Eagles forward Ahmed Musa to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has ignited fresh interest among top Nigerian players, with many now considering a future in domestic football. Musa’s decision to rejoin Kano Pillars, alongside fellow international Shehu Abdullahi, has become a catalyst for renewed attention to the NPFL, which has seen an influx of high-profile players.

Musa, a former CSKA Moscow and Leicester City star, made headlines recently with standout performances for Kano Pillars. The 32-year-old has already scored three goals and provided two assists in just four appearances, including a brace against Sunshine Stars and a goal in a thrilling 4-3 victory over Enugu Rangers. His return has energized the league, inspiring fellow Nigerian footballers to express interest in joining NPFL clubs.

Former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye is among those reportedly set to make a move to the NPFL. Ideye, who has played for European clubs like West Brom and Olympiacos, has been training with Rivers United, with head coach Finidi George confirming the player’s enthusiasm for a return to Nigerian football.

“Ahmed Musa’s decision to come back has shown the way, and if Ideye is willing to follow suit, we would welcome him,” Finidi said.

Current Super Eagles stars such as Alex Iwobi, Maduka Okoye, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Frank Onyeka have also expressed interest in playing for NPFL clubs. Iwobi, when asked about his choice, said he would join Musa at Kano Pillars. Okoye, whose family roots are tied to Enugu, declared Enugu Rangers as his preferred team. Dele-Bashiru and Onyeka mentioned Kano Pillars and Enyimba, respectively, as potential destinations.

Musa’s return is part of a broader trend that has seen former Super Eagles players, like Mobi Oparaku and the late Rashidi Yekini, return to the NPFL after successful stints abroad. The impact of these players coming back to Nigerian football is seen as a positive development for the league’s growth and reputation.

Assistant coach of Yaba FC, Ahmed Omale, praised Musa’s decision, noting that it has opened the door for other Nigerian internationals to consider playing in the NPFL. “It brings a lot of positivity to the league and boosts its reputation not just in Nigeria, but across Africa and the world,” Omale said. He also likened the trend to Brazilian players who often return to their domestic leagues after long careers in Europe.

Idris Musa Adinoyi, captain of Dawaki Rangers FC, also commented on the significance of Musa’s return, calling it a testament to the growth of the NPFL. He emphasized how Musa’s presence adds experience and international exposure to the team, which could elevate the league’s quality and commercial value.

Musa’s performances have sparked hope among fans and analysts that his return could even lead to a national team recall ahead of the 2025 AFCON. His journey back to Kano Pillars is being celebrated not just as a personal success, but as a pivotal moment for Nigerian football’s domestic revival.