Portugal’s Primeira Liga has welcomed several Nigerian footballers over the years, providing a solid platform for players to grow, adapt to European football, and in some cases, earn major transfers.
While not as crowded with Nigerians as leagues like Belgium or Turkey, the Portuguese top flight has still played host to some impressive Nigerian talents.
In this article, FootyNaija.com ranks the five most impactful Nigerians to ever feature in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, based on performances, consistency, and contribution.
5. Shehu Abdullahi
Shehu Abdullahi joined the now-dissolved União da Madeira in the 2015–16 season, just as the club gained promotion to the Primeira Liga. The Nigerian midfielder quickly adapted to life in Portugal, becoming one of the few bright spots in a struggling side.
In his debut season, Shehu made 28 league appearances, operating mainly as a defensive midfielder, though he also featured at right-back when needed.
4. Kevin Amuneke
Kevin Amuneke enjoyed two spells in Portugal and made sure his name remained in the conversation. He first joined Vitória Setúbal in the 2006–07 season, where he featured in 28 league matches and scored 4 goals, playing as a wide attacker. He helped the club fight off relegation and showed sharp finishing and quick feet on the break.
In 2009–10, he returned to Portugal with CD Nacional, making another 16 league appearances and adding 2 goals. His overall tally of 6 goals in 44 top-flight games reflected his value, especially as a squad player capable of scoring important goals.
3. Mikel Agu
Mikel Agu made history in 2014 when he became the first Nigerian to play for FC Porto’s senior team in a league fixture. He had developed through Porto B, where he impressed with his tackling and short passing. His debut in a 2–1 win against Gil Vicente opened the door for his next steps in Portugal.
His best season came at Vitória Setúbal in 2016–17, where he made 27 league appearances as a defensive midfielder and became one of the club’s most reliable ball winners. His performances in Portugal earned him a place in Nigeria’s preliminary 30-man squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, though he did not make the final cut.
2. Chidozie Awaziem
Chidozie Awaziem made his Primeira Liga debut with FC Porto in the 2015–16 season and later became a regular for Boavista during multiple campaigns between 2020 and 2024.
Awaziem played over 54 league matches for Boavista, bringing calmness, strength and aerial ability to the centre of defence. His leadership stood out in difficult seasons, as he helped the team avoid relegation battles with consistent performances.
The Super Eagles defender remained in the national team conversation for years, thanks in part to his steady form in Portugal. For a Nigerian centre-back, few have matched his defensive record in the Primeira Liga.
1. Emmanuel Amuneke
Emmanuel Amuneke’s short but electric time in Portugal is still talked about by Sporting CP fans. After winning the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria, where he scored twice in the final, Amuneke joined Sporting later that year and quickly made an impression in Lisbon.
Between 1994 and 1996, he played 52 league matches and scored 17 goals, often dominating the left wing with his pace and powerful left foot. His form in Portugal attracted the attention of Spanish giants FC Barcelona, where he moved in 1996.
At Sporting, Amuneke helped the team compete at the top end of the table. His goals, dribbling and attacking instinct gave Sporting an extra dimension in attack.