Seun Akanji’s transfer from Sporting Lagos to Norwegian club Lillestrom has once again highlighted the growing link between Nigerian football and Scandinavia. The 18-year-old attacker signed a contract until 2030 after helping Sporting Lagos win the Nigeria National League title and secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
His move adds to the list of Nigerian footballers who have chosen Norway and other Scandinavian countries as the first step in their European careers. Clubs in the region continue to scout young Nigerian players, offering them opportunities to develop before moving to bigger leagues across Europe.
Nigerian Players Continue To Use Norway As A Gateway To Europe
Norwegian clubs have regularly signed young Nigerian talents in recent years. Several players have used the country’s top division to gain European experience before earning moves to stronger leagues.
Akor Adams established himself in Norway before moving to France, while Igoh Ogbu also developed in Scandinavian football before securing a transfer elsewhere in Europe.
Now, Seun Akanji follows a similar path. Lillestrom first assessed the Sporting Lagos forward during a trial in January 2025, when he was 16. After monitoring his progress for about 18 months, the club completed a permanent deal during the summer transfer window.
Speaking after joining Lillestrom, Akanji said he was excited to begin the next stage of his career. He also said the higher level of training had already challenged him to improve.
Lillestrom sporting director Espen Olsen said the club had followed the Nigerian youngster since his trial and believed he had strong long-term potential.
Sporting Lagos Continues To Produce Players For Europe
Akanji’s transfer also reflects Sporting Lagos’ role in developing young players.
The forward played an important part in the club’s promotion-winning campaign as Sporting Lagos returned to the NPFL after winning the Nigeria National League title. His performances attracted interest from European clubs before Lillestrom completed the transfer.
The move is Akanji’s first professional transfer outside Nigeria. Although he has spoken about representing the Super Eagles in the future, he said his immediate focus is on earning regular minutes with his new club in Norway.
With more European clubs scouting Nigeria each season, transfers from the NPFL and the Nigeria National League to Scandinavia continue to provide another route for young Nigerian footballers seeking opportunities abroad.
