New Rivers United goalkeeper Ifeanyi Emmanuel Nchekwube has revealed his ambition to strengthen the club’s defence by producing even more clean sheets in the upcoming campaign.
The shot-stopper, who recently signed a three-year contract with the Pride of Rivers, is determined to build on his impressive form from last season as the Port Harcourt-based club prepares for another Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title pursuit and a return to continental competition.
Nchekwube recorded 13 clean sheets during the 2025/26 NPFL season, a feat that placed him among the league’s top-performing goalkeepers.
His displays for Niger Tornadoes, where he played a key role in helping the team maintain their top-flight status, earned him attention from several clubs before Rivers United secured his services.
The former Akwa United and Sporting Lagos goalkeeper finished fourth in the league’s clean sheet rankings and believes he can raise his performance level under head coach Finidi George.
“I got 13 last season, so I want to get like 20 this season, hopefully, by the grace of God,” Nchekwube said while speaking to AIT.
The goalkeeper also expressed confidence in Finidi’s leadership, stating that the experience of the former Super Eagles coach will be crucial as Rivers United aim for success both domestically and in Africa.
“We have one of the big shots as our TA, which is Finidi George. With what he has gathered, with our own contribution, we’ll go further; we’ll do better,” he added.
Oladunjoye Confident Rivers United Can Compete in Africa
Another new arrival, midfielder Shola Oladunjoye, has backed Rivers United to challenge strongly on multiple fronts after joining the club from Sporting Lagos.
The 20-year-old midfielder turned down the opportunity to extend his stay with the newly promoted NPFL side in order to pursue bigger ambitions, including continental football with Rivers United.
Oladunjoye spent four years at Madiba FC before establishing himself at Sporting Lagos, where his performances during the 2025/26 season highlighted his creativity, work rate and consistency.
The young midfielder believes Rivers United’s squad depth and the presence of experienced players with national team backgrounds can help the club achieve major targets.
“There are very good players, quality players here, that have represented the Nigerian national team and in leagues,” Oladunjoye said.
“I think with these players, we are winning this season, and we are going far, as far as the quarterfinals and the final in the CAF Champions League.”
The 2026/27 NPFL season is expected to kick off on the final weekend of August, while Rivers United will begin their CAF Champions League journey in the first week of September.