The Nationwide League One, which is regarded as the most important football league in Nigeria, has become home to football history makers.

When the management of the NLO demanded that participating teams ensure the registration of young players, it was clear to discerning minds that it would yield good fruits. 

One of the most prominent results, is the emergence of prodigiously talented 14 years old Nimi Solanke, who captained and shone brightly for Olumo United football club during its participation in this year’s NLO matches, played at their Ogun State centre.

 

Many who knew the immensely gifted Nimi, who is fondly called Wonderboy, were not surprised that he bravely led the young team paraded by Olumo United against bigger and older oppositions. 

Real names Patrick Adeoluwanimi Solanke, made history at the age of 14, as the youngest ever goal scorer in the annals of league football in Nigeria, when he scored the equaliser for his side that was credited as the youngest team against Lasegski FC in an NLO game.

 

This remarkable feat has not gone unnoticed as the the management of the third-tier domestic football league have expressed their happiness in the achievement of Nimi, which they also believes is a testament to their plans to develop Nigerian football through the encouragement of younger footballers in organised football. 

 

"Nimi is still very young and a secondary school student. We plan to continue the exposure for him playing against older players in various tournaments, within and outside the country. The real work has just got started and we hope that the world will recognize his prowess in the field of play," Solanke, the proud enthused confidently. 

 

Meanwhile, Nimi, a product of Provavios Sports Academy, owned by his father Segun Solanke, is unfazed by his historic achievement, as he confidently reiterates his determination to follow every footstep of his idol Cristiano Ronaldo, with his eyes firmly placed on the coveted Balon D'ior, as a future winner.