Ikorodu City FC has reinforced its ranks with four new signings as they prepare to open their 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign against Kwara United this weekend in Ilorin.
Among the fresh arrivals is Liberian international goalkeeper Derrick Julu, who penned a two-year deal with the Oga Boys. A two-time Liberian First Division champion with Watanga FC, Julu is already in camp and expected to provide both competition and stability in goal.
The club also confirmed the addition of three Nigerian players: forwards Uchechukwu Onyemaechi and Taiwo Alao, along with midfielder Rasheed Owolabi. Onyemaechi joins from Ijebu United on a multi-year contract, Alao arrives from Sporting Lagos, while Owolabi switches from Inter Lagos on a two-year deal.
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Ikorodu City, who impressed in their maiden NPFL campaign by finishing fourth and narrowly missing out on continental qualification, will travel to Ilorin Township Stadium on Sunday, August 24, 2025, for their opener against Kwara United.
With these reinforcements, the Lagos side is targeting a top-three finish as they look to build on last season’s momentum.
Editorial
We see Ikorodu City’s latest transfer activity as a clear statement of intent. In just their second season in the NPFL, the Oga Boys are showing that they are not content with being labelled as a promising newcomer—they are positioning themselves as serious contenders.
Bringing in a seasoned international like Derrick Julu signals ambition. His experience as a two-time Liberian champion will add confidence and leadership to the backline, while also raising standards for local players around him. It shows the club understands that stability in goal is the foundation for any successful campaign.
The inclusion of Onyemaechi, Alao, and Owolabi underlines another smart approach: blending youth with proven NPFL experience. These players represent both immediate value and long-term growth, a balance many Nigerian clubs struggle to strike. By diversifying their squad with talent from different backgrounds, Ikorodu City are building a depth that could sustain them through the long, demanding season.
Last season’s fourth-place finish was no fluke. It was a warning shot that a new force had arrived in Lagos football. But football is never static—standing still means falling behind. By acting decisively in the transfer market, Ikorodu City are ensuring they won’t be left behind.
We believe their fans have every reason to dream. This team is built not only to compete but to challenge. And as the new season kicks off in Ilorin, the Oga Boys look ready to prove that last year’s achievement was just the beginning.
Did You Know?
- Kwara United’s home ground, the Ilorin Township Stadium, has a capacity of over 18,000 spectators.
- Ikorodu City FC was founded in 2022 and gained NPFL promotion within just two years a rare achievement in Nigerian football.
- Derrick Julu has represented Liberia at both U20 and senior national team levels.
- Ikorodu City are nicknamed the Oga Boys, reflecting their Lagos roots and cultural pride.
- In the NPFL, the top three teams typically qualify for CAF inter-club competitions such as the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.
