Akor Adams: Idoma prodigy bursts onto the Super Eagles scene with debut goal

From the quiet community of Odoba, Otukpa, to the dazzling stadium lights of Polokwane, South Africa, Akor Jerome Adams has AKORmplished what many only dream of turning raw passion into pure brilliance on football’s grandest stage.
The 24-year-old striker announced his arrival on the biggest stage in style, scoring a stunning 80th-minute superb goal on his Super Eagles debut against Lesotho in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier. His goal proved decisive, sealing a 2–1 victory for Nigeria and reviving the nation’s qualification hopes.

With that single strike, Akor joined an exclusive class of debut scorers, a list that includes Obafemi Martins, Julius Aghahowa and Taiwo Awoniyi, all legends who once made Nigeria proud.

Before his green-white-green moment, Akor had already been catching headlines in Europe. The forward, who currently plies his trade with Sevilla FC in Spain, has built a reputation as a relentless goal-poacher. His power, pace, and aerial dominance have made him one of the most talked-about Nigerian strikers abroad.

Born and raised in the heart of Idoma land, Akor’s journey began on the dusty pitches of Otukpa, where his raw talent caught the attention of local coaches. From there, his rise has been meteoric, from Lobi Stars Academy to Norway’s Lillestrom and now, to the grand stage of La Liga and the Super Eagles.

Reacting to the young striker’s feat, Ameh Godwin, Chairman of the Ogbadibo Local Government Football Association, described Akor’s debut goal as “a proud moment for Ogbadibo, Idoma land, and the entire nation.”

“Akor’s goal on his debut is just the beginning,” Ameh said. “I urge him not to allow the goal and the euphoria of the moment to distract him. He has so much more to deliver for Nigeria.”

Ameh further charged Akor to aim higher, challenging him to surpass the record set by his kinsman, Daniel ‘The Bull’ Amokachi, who netted 13 goals in 44 appearances for the national team.

“He must emulate Amokachi’s discipline, passion, and commitment to the game,” Ameh added. “We’re proud of him and we’ll continue to pray for his success. Let him keep the fire burning and make Idoma land proud.”

In Akor Adams, Idoma land has found a new footballing ambassador, one whose story reminds every village boy that with focus and faith, the world can become their pitch.

Barely days after thrilling fans in Spain, where he scored his first goal at Sevilla’s Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium in a stunning 4–1 victory over Barcelona, the Idoma-born striker carried his blistering form into the Super Eagles, marking his debut with a powerful goal against Lesotho in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

Even Sevilla’s official social media couldn’t hide their admiration for the rising star, celebrating him with the words: “First game ☑️ First goal 🤛 Congratulations, Akor! 👏🇳🇬 #WeAreSevilla”
For Ogbadibo and indeed all of Benue, his name now echoes with pride. For Nigeria, he’s not just another striker, he’s proof that greatness can rise from anywhere, even from the red soil of Otukpa.