Rivers United have officially strengthened their ranks with the signing of promising Nigerian shot-stopper Clinton Ezekiel.
The youngster joins the Port Harcourt-based giants on a one-year contract from Bayelsa United, ahead of what promises to be a grueling 2026/27 campaign.
Rising Above Relegation: Ezekiel’s Individual Brilliance Earns Top-Flight Stay
Ezekiel’s move comes on the heels of a bittersweet season with Bayelsa United.
After starting his career with Calabar Rovers, the goalkeeper moved to the Yenagoa-based side for the 2024/25 season and firmly established himself as a key figure during the 2025/26 campaign.
He made 25 league appearances and registered six clean sheets. While his standout reflexes and composure weren’t quite enough to save the Restoration Boys from finishing 19th and slipping into relegation, his individual excellence caught the eyes of scouts across the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Ultimately, the Pride of Rivers won the race for his highly sought-after signature.
Finidi George Fortifies Squad for Domestic and Continental Glory
The acquisition is another tactical masterstroke by Rivers United head coach Finidi George.
The former Enyimba manager is actively building a formidable roster capable of navigating both the intense domestic calendar and the high-stakes demands of the CAF Champions League.
The Big Picture: For Ezekiel, the move marks a massive career leap. He transitions from the heartbreak of relegation to the pinnacle of Nigerian football, with a golden opportunity to test himself on the continental stage.
By bringing in the talented youngster, Finidi adds depth, youthful hunger, and fierce competition to the goalkeeping department as the Garden City club sets its sights firmly on the NPFL title and a deep African run.