Yakubu Proud to Hold Nigeria’s Premier League Scoring Record

Retired Super Eagles striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has expressed deep pride in his status as Nigeria’s all‑time highest foreign goalscorer in the English Premier League. Born in Benin City, he had a prolific run in England, turning out for the likes of Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton and Blackburn Rovers.

Across 252 top‑flight appearances, Yakubu netted 95 times outpacing fellow Nigerians such as Nwankwo Kanu (54 goals), Efan Ekoku (53), Shola Ameobi (43) and Kelechi Iheanacho (42). He remarked, “Records are meant to be broken, but to be in that list … it’s an honour.”

Reflecting on the challenges of the Premier League, he observed that scoring there is never easy: “Many players struggle … it’s a hard league.” Yet even as injuries cost him nearly eleven months at one point, he remains grateful for what he achieved. “I don’t have that chance to … 100 [goals] because I was injured … but I’m honoured, pleased with myself.”

Among his notable feats, Yakubu became the first footballer to score at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League era—his goal coming in the 24th minute of Portsmouth’s 1–1 draw with Manchester City in August 2003.

Editorial

We see in Yakubu’s reflections more than a celebration of personal achievement; we see a narrative about resilience, identity, and legacy. In football, records matter not only as numbers on a sheet but as symbols of perseverance and aspiration.

Yakubu’s 95 Premier League goals did not come easily. He battled injuries, competition, and the rigours of one of the toughest leagues in the world. Yet he never shied away from that challenge. His pride in being Nigeria’s top scorer is rightly earned. We believe that such achievements should serve as motivation for younger players: that foreign leagues are not merely stages to be visited, but arenas to be conquered.

He speaks humbly about the injuries that denied him the 100‑goal mark. Rather than resent those setbacks, he frames them as part of his journey. That attitude deserves respect. In a time when many athletes chase instant glory, Yakubu’s perspective reminds us that setbacks do not define a career they are part of it.

We also recognise the importance of legacy of being remembered not just for goals, but for character, resolve, and influence. Yakubu’s place among African greats Salah, Mane, Drogba, Adebayor shows that excellence across continents is possible. His example invites us to think beyond present matches and scoreboards: to nurture the next generation, to talk about records not as final endpoints but as milestones.

We began by seeing Yakubu’s story as more than numbers. His pride in achievement, his humility in adversity, and his awareness of mortality remind us that legacy is forged in the interplay of talent, struggle and integrity. May his legacy continue to inspire.

Did You Know?

1. Yakubu’s full name is Yakubu Aiyegbeni, and he is often simply called “Yakubu” in football circles.
2. Before moving to England, he began his European career in Belgium with Royal Antwerp.
3. Yakubu holds the record for the most Premier League goals scored by a Nigerian player at a single club Everton (especially considering his loan period).
4. He has represented Nigeria in two FIFA World Cups (2002 and 2010).
5. After retiring, Yakubu has invested in youth football development in Nigeria, supporting academies and mentoring young players.