Nigerian footballers in South America have firmly established themselves in diverse leagues and cultures, proving that the nation’s talent transcends borders. In Brazil, Argentina, and beyond, these expatriates combine flair, physicality, and tactical intelligence to thrive. They overcome language barriers, altitude challenges, and distinct playing philosophies, shining with unwavering determination. As the 2025/26 season unfolds, fans ask: Which Nigerian footballers in South America will lead their clubs to continental glory? How do they adapt to varied tactical demands? Can they leverage South American success into global opportunities? What inspires young talents back home? This exploration answers these questions by showcasing the finest Nigerian stars influencing South American football.
1. Shola Ogundana – Flamengo
Shola Ogundana, born 22 February 2005 in Ifaki, Ekiti State, joined Flamengo’s youth ranks after standing out at the 2022 Torneo di Viareggio. His explosive dribbling, acceleration, and vision powered Flamengo’s under-20 side to the 2024 U-20 Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup, where he scored the opening goal in the Libertadores final.
In July 2024, Flamengo secured 70% of his economic rights, and ahead of the 2025/26 season, he earned promotion to the senior squad. As the club’s first Nigerian in the first team, he blends Brazilian flair with Nigerian resilience, tracking back defensively and unlocking defenses with incisive crosses.
2. Samuel Otusanya – Criciúma
Oluwasegun Samuel Otusanya, a 1.86 m centre-forward born 27 June 2004, joined Criciúma for 2025. His aerial dominance and composed finishing emerged during youth tournaments, earning him a key role in the Série B side’s attack.
In the 2025/26 season, Otusanya spearheads Criciúma’s front line, using hold-up play and intelligent runs to create space. Early-season friendlies showcased his lethal left foot and poise under pressure, marking him as one of the top emerging Nigerian footballers in South America.
3. Divine Ukaegbu Obijuro – Cancún FC
Divine Ukaegbu Obijuro, born 6 May 2006 in Abia State, signed for Cancún FC for the 2025/26 Liga de Expansión MX campaign. At just 19, his playmaking vision and composure under pressure have impressed coaches during preseason.
Operating as a central midfielder, Obijuro controls tempo and orchestrates attacks, completing 90% of passes in friendlies. His adaptability to high-altitude conditions and tactical maturity position him among the finest Nigerian footballers in South America’s adjacent leagues.
4. Gideon Iliya Zuma – Deportivo Rayo Zuliano
Gideon Iliya Zuma, 1.73 m and born 12 June 1999 in Jos, Nigeria, joined Deportivo Rayo Zuliano in January 2025. His European experience from Portugal’s lower divisions enhances his tactical discipline and passing range in Venezuela’s Primera División. Coaches praise his stamina and game intelligence, making him one of the leading Nigerian footballers in South America’s Venezuelan league.
5. Bismark Ubah – Royal Pari
Bismark Storne Ebuka Ubah, born 5 January 1994, leads Royal Pari’s attack in Bolivia’s Primera División. After stints in Venezuela, his veteran presence and aerial prowess make him a vital mentor for younger players. As the 2025/26 season begins, Ubah organizes set pieces and stretches defenses with intelligent movement. His consistency and leadership cement his status among Nigerian expatriates shaping Bolivian football.
6. Johnson Akuchie – Flandria
Johnson Akuchie, born 6 January 1990 features for Flandria in Argentina’s Primera B Metropolitana. His clinical finishing and movement between the lines have made him a reliable goal-scorer since 2011. Preseason saw Akuchie score key goals, proving he remains one of the elite Nigerian forwards in South America’s Argentine circuits, known for his razor-sharp instincts in the box.
7. Anthony Msonter Shimaga – Academia Puerto Cabello
Anthony Shimaga, 1.90 m and born 24 August 1997 in Gboko, anchors Academia Puerto Cabello’s defense. His aerial duels and tackling timing provide a solid foundation for the club’s backline. Shimaga’s leadership and calm distribution under pressure have emerged in Copa Sudamericana friendlies, highlighting him as a top Nigerian footballer in South America’s defensive ranks.
8. Musa Isah – Academia Puerto Cabello
Musa Isah, born 4 January 2002, signed for Puerto Cabello for 2025/26. His box-to-box energy and pressing acumen make him indispensable in midfield transitions. Early matches showcased his stamina and passing accuracy, underlining his potential as one of the most promising Nigerian footballers in South America’s Venezuelan league.
9. Shola Michael Oduoye – Caracas FC
Shola Michael Oduoye, born 24 August 2005, stands at 1.93 m and anchors Caracas FC’s attack. He scored on his league debut against Zamora, signaling his aerial threat and hold-up play. Oduoye’s development in hold-up and link-up play during preseason points to a breakout 2025/26 season, marking him among the top young Nigerian talents in South America.
10. Saminu Kwari Abdullahi – Juárez
Saminu Kwari Abdullahi, born 3 January 2001 in Jos, Nigeria, joined FC Juárez in January 2025. As a defensive midfielder, his interceptions and pressing triggers drive the club’s counter-press system. Abdullahi’s early Liga MX appearances demonstrated his tactical intelligence and adaptability, showcasing why he is a standout among Nigerian footballers in South America’s neighboring region.
Conclusion
The 2025/26 season underscores the growing influence of Nigerian footballers in South America, from Brazil’s top-flight to Mexico’s expansion league. Their blend of tactical mastery, professional integrity, and unwavering determination elevates club performances and inspires future generations. As these expatriates continue to excel, they reinforce Nigeria’s reputation as a foremost exporter of world-class football talent.
