Former Nigerian forward and football agent Dauda Abiola believes Leonard Ngege has earned his move to Leeds United and is confident the young defender can develop into a top player.
Former Nigerian striker turned football agent Dauda Abiola believes Leonard Ngege has the talent to succeed at Leeds United after the 18-year-old secured a move to the Premier League club’s academy.
Abiola, believes Ngege deserves the opportunity and says Leeds have shown faith in his potential.
“There are some things I cannot say about Leonard’s transfer to Leeds, but what I can say is that he deserves it,” Abiola told Africafoot.
“Going for a trial during the winter is no joke. Leeds also believe in him, and I know he will become a top player.”
Abiola established Bilda Football Academy in 2019 to support young footballers and give back to the game. He also works as an agent, helping emerging talents pursue opportunities in Europe, with Ngege among the players he has assisted.
QPR move did not work out for Mbah
Abiola also discussed the experience of another Nigerian youngster, Chike Mbah, who had a trial with English Championship side Queens Park Rangers before moving to Serbian club OFK Belgrade.
The agent said the opportunity at QPR did not lead to a deal because the club were looking for players in different positions.
“Yes, he went for a trial at QPR, but it did not work out because they wanted players in different positions, and most of the players selected were defenders,” Abiola said.
Mbah’s move to Serbia represents another route for young Nigerian footballers seeking to establish themselves in European football.
Abiola highlights opportunities in Sweden
Abiola also spoke about the growing presence of Nigerian and other African youngsters in Sweden’s Allsvenskan, which he believes offers an attractive environment for player development.
He argued that Scandinavian clubs can benefit financially from recruiting young African talent while providing players with a platform to progress in their careers.
“Having African players in Scandinavian clubs is very important because the business gives them a lot of money while spending less,” he said.
“The Swedish Allsvenskan is one of the best places for African players to develop and take the next steps in their careers,” he concluded.
Ngege, one of Nigeria’s highly rated young defenders, joined Leeds after spells with Nigerian clubs Ikorodu City and Remo Stars. He has signed a contract until the end of the 2026-27 season and has featured for the club’s Under-21 side, although he is yet to make his first-team debut.
The centre-back has already gained experience at senior level, featuring in the CAF Champions League and representing Nigeria’s B team at the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
He has also made two senior international appearances for Nigeria, making his debut against Senegal before featuring against Sudan.
