Nelson Abiam Bids Emotional Goodbye to NPFL After Sealing Move to Lithuanian Giants, FK Žalgiris Vilniu
In what marks a proud new chapter in his football journey, former Kano Pillars defender, Nelson Abiam, has officially signed a three-year deal with FK Žalgiris Vilnius, one of the most decorated clubs in the Lithuanian top flight.
Abiam, who has plied his trade across some of the most prominent clubs in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), penned a touching farewell message on Facebook, appreciating the league and its clubs for helping mold him into the professional he is today.
“Yeshua is faithful!! I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the NPFL, the platform that gave me my first shot at professional football and shaped me into the player I am today,” Abiam wrote.
“From my early days at Wikki Tourists, to the experiences at Nasarawa United, Enugu Rangers, Doma United, Kano Pillars, and Enyimba, each club has played a pivotal role in my development.”
He gave a special mention to Doma United, where he made NPFL history during the 2023/2024 season as the first defender to finish as the club's top scorer with five goals — an achievement that will forever define his legacy.
🔍 Opinion: A Star Rising Beyond Borders
Nelson Abiam’s move is not just a win for him personally — it’s a huge testament to the quality and potential of the NPFL, which continues to produce talents who go on to shine in top leagues across the world.
His journey — from the grassroots of Nigerian football to making history as a goal-scoring defender, and now heading into Europe’s competitive landscape — is the kind of football fairytale that should inspire every budding star in the league.
As Nigeria continues to export talent to Europe, moves like Abiam’s show that with consistency, grit, and belief, anything is possible — even from within local leagues that often don’t get the spotlight they deserve.
⚽ Wishing Nelson Abiam success and good fortune in Lithuania!
👏 He has made the NPFL proud — and fans will surely be watching his next steps in Europe.
📣 NPFL fans! What are your favorite memories of Abiam?
💬 Drop your thoughts and wish him well below!
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