Godwin Obaje reaches 100 NPFL goals as Victor Ezeji welcomes record challenge

Former Nigeria striker Victor Ezeji has congratulated Godwin Obaje after the Rangers forward became the latest player to reach 100 goals in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Obaje’s landmark goal has earned widespread recognition in Nigerian football, highlighting his longevity and consistency across a career that has included spells with Wikki Tourists, FC Ifeanyi Ubah, Abia Warriors and Enugu Rangers.

The achievement places Obaje in the NPFL’s 100-goal club alongside Ezeji and active veteran Rabiu Ali.

Ezeji, who retired 11 years ago and finished his career with 148 league goals, said he would welcome Obaje surpassing his personal record.

“No records are there forever; records are meant to be broken,” Ezeji said. “I stopped playing 11 years ago and would love to see my record broken. I wish Obaje well and hope he breaks it, and if not, that’s also fine.”

The former forward’s response underlines the respect between generations of Nigerian footballers. Rather than viewing Obaje’s progress as a threat to his own standing, Ezeji regards the pursuit of his record as evidence of the continuing development of the domestic game.

Obaje’s century has been built over successful periods with several NPFL clubs before his latest spell with Enugu Rangers. His goalscoring record has now placed him among an exclusive group of players to have reached three figures in the competition.

The Rangers striker will have the opportunity to extend his tally in the club’s colours, with attention now turning to how far he can push his total and whether he can eventually overtake Ezeji’s 148-goal mark.

Ezeji’s comments also reflect the wider significance of the milestone, with Obaje’s achievement adding another notable chapter to the history of the NPFL.