Akwa United defender Ebedebiri Endurance has expressed mixed emotions following a career-best season that ended in relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The 22-year-old centre-back scored five goals in 36 league appearances for the Promise Keepers during the 2024/25 campaign, a rare feat for a defender and joint-most by a centre-back alongside Plateau United’s Olawale Doyeni.
“I feel happy scoring five goals and helping my team,” Ebedebiri told Athletic NG. “But it’s so painful, we went down. God knows best.”
His season began with a towering header in a 2–0 win over Kano Pillars and included a string of decisive penalties against Kwara United, Heartland, and Bayelsa United as well as a close-range finish against Shooting Stars.
Each goal came at a vital moment, reflecting his consistency in an otherwise difficult campaign.
Ebedebiri Endurance in action in the NPFL. Photo Credit: X
Ebedebiri revealed he set out at the start of the season determined to be consistent.
“I made up my mind before the season to give my best, and truly, God helped me out,” he said. “I must also give credit to Paul Bassey he helped me a lot in the team.”
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Despite his standout performances, Ebedebiri is yet to receive a call-up to the home-based Super Eagles (CHAN team).
“They have not called me, and I don’t know why. But God knows the best,” he said.
He models his game after former Brazil and Chelsea defender Thiago Silva, admiring his calmness and composure under pressure.
Ebedebiri has played over 100 NPFL matches across spells with Bayelsa United, Rivers United, Lobi Stars, and Akwa United, with the Aiteo Cup win at Bayelsa remaining a standout memory.
“The final against Nasarawa United in Benin was special,” he recalled.
Ebedebiri Endurance in action in the NPFL. Photo Credit: X
Relegation with Akwa United, however, ranks as his lowest point. “The hardest moment was going down. But it’s football. You keep going.”
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Having featured in the CAF Confederation Cup, he acknowledges the gap between NPFL clubs and their continental rivals.
“We have good players, but we lack the structure and resources to match their standard,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ebedebiri dreams of playing for the Super Eagles and ultimately moving abroad.
“My ambition is to go to Europe and show the world what I can do. That’s where I see myself shortly,” he said.
