In what can only be described as a fairytale debut season, Akeem Akanni has carved his name into Kwara United’s history books, playing a pivotal role in guiding the club to its first major trophy in over 28 years. Arriving as a relatively unknown figure, the dynamic midfielder quickly won over fans with his passion, consistency, and flair—culminating in a triumphant President Federation Cup campaign.
With 35 appearances in all competitions, 3 goals, and 4 assists in the just-concluded season, Akanni has firmly established himself as a key player for the Harmony Boys.
In this exclusive interview, he reflects on his incredible debut season, shares his thoughts on the final, pays tribute to the supporters, and gives us a glimpse into what’s next on his journey.
Excerpts:
Take us back to the beginning, what was your mindset and personal goal when you joined Kwara United at the start of the season?
Akanni: My mindset? Honestly, it was just to go for it. Even though there were moments I felt like crying at the start of the season, I didn’t let it get to me. I wasn’t too hard on myself because I knew it was my first season in the NPFL. I told myself, ‘You need to make a statement. You need to gain the trust of the coaches and your teammates, and let the world know what you’re made of.’ My personal goal from the very beginning was clear: to win something by the end of the season. I wanted to lift a silverware and, hopefully, attract a better offer. That’s what kept me going throughout the season.
In two words, how would you describe your debut season in the NPFL?
Akanni: In two words, I’d describe my debut season in the NPFL as amazing and promising. Yeah, amazing and promising.
Which team was the toughest opponent you faced?
Akanni: The toughest team I faced was El Kanemi in the first round. That game was my toughest of the season, and they were definitely the most challenging opponent I came up against.
What was your favorite goal you scored during the season?
Akanni: My favourite goal has to be my first ever goal — it came in my debut match against Bayelsa United, away at their home ground. That moment was special, and it’ll always stand out as my favourite.
Who is your closest friend among your teammates?
Akanni: My closest friend among my teammates is Abayomi Lawal. We’ve known each other for a very long time, and we happened to meet again at Kwara United. He was already at the club before I joined, so settling in was quite easy for me. His support really helped me adjust quickly. He’s definitely my closest friend at Kwara United.
Also, congratulations on winning your first major trophy in your debut season! How does it feel to be a Federation Cup champion, and what does winning the trophy mean to you personally and professionally?
Akanni: Thank you, thank you so much. Honestly, it feels amazing. At first, it felt like a dream — I kept asking myself, ‘Is this really happening?’ Winning the most prestigious competition in Nigeria, and having my face and name attached to it… it was surreal.
The experience meant so much to me, especially because the final was played in the very neighborhood I grew up in. That made it even more personal. My parents and family truly understood the weight of that moment.
Professionally, it gave me a huge boost. It made me believe that if I could achieve this in my debut season in the NPFL, then there’s no limit to what I can do in the seasons to come. It’s given me a lot of confidence and high hopes for the future.
At what point during the tournament did you and the team start believing you could actually win the trophy?
Akanni: Big thanks to the management and coaches for always believing in us. Even when things weren’t going well, they kept saying, “Win six or seven games, and you can win the trophy.” They never pressured us — just encouraged us to focus on one game at a time. That mindset changed everything. The turning point was the quarter-final. We were two goals down, fought back to 2–2, and won on penalties. That game sparked real belief — in the team, the fans, and everyone around us.
Credit to the coaches and management for planting that belief.
What was going through your mind after you missed your kick during the Federation Cup Final penalty shootout?
Akanni: This is a question I’ve been asked a lot by friends and family, and honestly, most of them can’t believe what I told them. After I missed that penalty, my head went completely blank. Nothing was going through my mind.
I wasn’t trying to put pressure on myself or break down. I just told myself, ‘Maybe God has a reason for this. Maybe it’s what’s best for the team.’ At that moment, I wasn’t feeling anything, no panic, no fear, just focused on the other players and hoping we could still win.
It was only after the whole game ended and we had won the shootout that it really settled in. That’s when it hit me like, ‘Guy, you almost messed up big time.’ But in the moment, it was just blank — all I could think was, ‘Let’s win this’.
Did you face any challenges or low moments during the season and how were you able to overcome?
Akanni: Midway through the season, likely in the second round — my body started to give out. I had played too many games without proper rest, and it showed in my performance. I couldn’t give my best, and the team was also struggling to get crucial points.
The match against Sunshine Stars was my lowest point — I felt heavy, weak, and couldn’t complete even simple passes. The whole team was off, and the result shocked everyone watching.
It was a tough period, but I didn’t do anything drastic. I just focused on rest, cleared my head, and let my body recover. That helped me bounce back and finish the season strong.
Kwara United will be playing on the continent next season. How do you feel about that?
Akanni: I’ll be playing on the continent this season, and honestly, I feel really good about it. It’s my first time, so I don’t exactly know what to expect — but I’m prepared for whatever comes my way.
I know it’s a big stage, so I’m ready to put in extra work, double my effort, and train even harder. Whatever challenge the continent brings, I’m ready to face it head-on.
What are your personal goals for the upcoming season?
Akanni: My personal goals for this upcoming season are to be better, way better, than last season. I want to score more goals, provide more assists, and just improve my overall game. The target is to keep getting better and better with every match.
Finally, what message do you have for the supporters and for young players who look up to you now?
Akanni: To the supporters — thank you for the love, belief, and constant support. I promise to keep giving my all and making you proud.
To the young players looking up to me: always give your best, no matter the game. Play like someone’s watching — because they are.
Most importantly, trust the process. Everyone’s journey is different, so stay focused, keep pushing, and believe it will all come together in time.
Thank you for having me.
