NPFL: Sporting Lagos Promote 18-Year-Old Forward Fuhad Ojediran

Posted : 09 August 2026

Sporting Lagos have promoted academy forward Fuhad Ojediran to their first team ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season. The 18-year-old earned the opportunity after making significant progress since joining the club's academy in 2024.

Ojediran enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign across four competitions. He made 22 appearances in the TCC League, TCC Cup, Nigeria Nationwide League One and Lagos FA Cup, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists.

Sporting Lagos described the teenager as a skilful centre-forward who can create chances from difficult situations. The club also highlighted his goalscoring record over the past two seasons as evidence of his development.

The promotion represents the next stage of Ojediran's progression into senior football. The young forward said he is proud of the opportunity and is targeting his first-team debut during the upcoming NPFL campaign.

“I’m so proud. My aim is to make my debut with the first team and give my best whenever I have the opportunity,” Ojediran said.

Sporting Lagos head coach Jeffery Buter also backed the youngster to continue developing after earning his promotion. The coach praised Ojediran's hunger and competitive mentality, qualities he believes will help the teenager adjust to the demands of senior football.

“For his age, he’s got the right hunger and fire in his belly; he wants to compete, and that for us is what we want. He’ll get better here,” Buter said.

Academy head coach Uwejamomere Eboboritse also expressed satisfaction with Ojediran's progress. Eboboritse, who doubles as head coach of Nigeria's U17 side, believes the striker has earned the opportunity through his attitude and performances.

“Fuhad has developed the desire and aggression to thrive in senior football. He’s earned this next step. I’m really happy for him,” Eboboritse said.

Ojediran's promotion also highlights Sporting Lagos' continued focus on developing young Nigerian talent. His scoring numbers at academy and lower-league level have now earned him an opportunity to compete for senior-team minutes.

The teenager turned 18 last month and will now compete with Sporting Lagos' established attacking options for playing time. His ability to score and create chances could give Buter another option as the club prepares for the demands of the new NPFL campaign.

The 2026/27 NPFL season is scheduled to begin on August 28. Ojediran will hope his performances during pre-season can convince the coaching staff to hand him his senior debut when Sporting Lagos begin their campaign.

NPFL: Sporting Lagos Promote 18-Year-Old Forward Fuhad Ojediran

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