Frankie Omokhua, Enugu
Rangers International’s prolific striker, Godwin Obaje, has declared that the Flying Antelopes are fully prepared for their decisive final day clash against Ikorodu City in Lagos, as the battle for the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title reaches a dramatic conclusion.
Speaking in an interview with Sportsday on Wednesday, the NPFL leading scorer with 14 Goals reflected on his remarkable achievement of scoring 99 career goals, attributing the feat to hard work, consistency, and divine grace.
“It’s not easy, but I worked hard for it. I thank God because He has been helping me to achieve this feat and I feel very happy,” Obaje stated.
The experienced forward also opened up on his decision to continue plying his trade in the Nigerian league despite widespread expectations that a player of his quality would seek opportunities in Europe.
According to him, success is not solely defined by playing abroad, stressing that making a lasting impact in Nigerian football has brought him immense satisfaction.
“It’s true that every player dreams of playing in Europe, but sometimes not everyone will go there, and that’s life,” he said.
“I’m happy to have played in other leagues outside Nigeria, but making impact in the Nigerian league gives me joy. Playing alongside players who have helped me grow and trend in the league is something I will always cherish.”
Despite his outstanding form this season, Obaje remained tight-lipped about his future, insisting that discussions about his next move would only come after the conclusion of the campaign.
“For now, I’m still a Rangers player. Let’s see how things go after the league season, but presently I can’t say anything about that,” he added.
With Rangers set to face Ikorodu City in a high-stakes encounter on May 24 in Lagos, the striker assured supporters that the team is battle-ready for what could be the defining match of their careers.
He emphasized that the players understand the magnitude of the fixture and are determined to secure victory away from home.
“My message to our fans is that we are doing everything possible to go to Ikorodu and win the match because that game means a lot to us as players,” Obaje declared.
“We know that a positive result could change our careers, so we are fully prepared for the crucial encounter.”
The final day of the NPFL season promises intense drama, with attention divided between the Ikorodu City versus Rangers showdown in Lagos and Rivers United’s clash against Katsina United in Port Harcourt.
Victory for the Flying Antelopes would hand the Enugu-based side a record extending ninth league title and further cement their status among Nigeria’s most successful football clubs.
