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Top 10: Leke James and the greatest Nigerian goalscorers in Norway’s Eliteserien history

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Over the years, Nigeria has produced some of the finest foreign imports to Norway’s Eliteserien, leaving their mark with goals, flair, and unforgettable moments.

From Leke James’ lethal finishing to the midfield creativity of Chukwuma Akabueze, Nigerians have consistently lit up the league.

In this piece, Footynaija.com takes a look at the top ten Nigerian players with the most goals in Norway’s Eliteserien.

10. Moses Ebiye & John Chibuike – 19 Goals Each

At joint-tenth sit two forwards with 19 goals apiece. Moses Ebiye featured for Lillestrøm, Tromsø, and Aalesund between 2017 and 2024, scoring 19 goals in 96 appearances. Known for his pace and eye for goal, he became a reliable attacker wherever he played.

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John Chibuike, an attacking midfielder/second striker, matched that tally with 19 goals in 66 games for Rosenborg (2011–2013).

9. Akor Adams – 23 Goals

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Still only 25, Akor Adams made a name for himself with Lillestrøm SK (2022–2023), scoring 23 goals in 38 Eliteserien matches before securing a move to Ligue 1 with Montpellier. A powerful centre-forward with a natural nose for goal, Adams is one of the brightest Nigerian strikers of his generation.

8. Kim Ojo – 26 Goals

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Standing tall at 1.92m, Kim Ojo was a nightmare for defenders. He scored 26 goals in 57 Eliteserien appearances, mainly for Brann (2011–2013), where his aerial ability and clinical finishing made him a dominant presence. Despite a relatively short stint, Ojo’s impact was undeniable.

7. Anthony Ujah – 27 Goals

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Before embarking on his long career in Germany, Anthony Ujah made his breakthrough in Norway with Lillestrøm SK (2010–2011). He struck 27 goals in just 36 appearances, averaging nearly a goal every game and quickly establishing himself as one of the most exciting strikers in Scandinavia at the time.

6. Samuel Adegbenro – 28 Goals

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A tricky winger, Samuel Adegbenro dazzled fans with his dribbling and creativity during spells at Viking FK and Rosenborg (2015–2021). In total, he netted 28 goals in 127 appearances. His decisive strikes helped Rosenborg in their domestic dominance and European campaigns.

5. Fred Friday – 34 Goals

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Another striker who left his mark is Fred Friday, who bagged 34 goals in 115 Eliteserien appearances across stints with Lillestrøm SK (2015-2016) and Strømsgodset (2021–2022).

4. Daniel Chima Chukwu – 35 Goals

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Best remembered for his time at Molde FK (2010–2015, 2018-2020), Daniel Chima Chukwu was an integral part of Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s title-winning side. Across 118 league appearances, he scored 35 goals, many of them crucial in Molde’s championship runs. His legacy in Norway is tied to that golden Molde era.

3. Peter Ijeh – 39 Goals

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One of the early Nigerian pioneers in Scandinavia, Peter Ijeh scored 39 goals in 78 Eliteserien matches during the 2000s, most notably with Viking FK. A prolific finisher with superb positioning, Ijeh’s scoring feats helped pave the way for later generations of Nigerian forwards in Norway.

2. Chukwuma Akabueze – 45 Goals

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A versatile forward, Chukwuma “Bentley” Akabueze carved out a long career in Norway, scoring 45 goals in 209 league appearances for Odd Grenland (2007-2011, 2014-2016) and SK Brann (2011–2012).

1. Leke James – 70 Goals

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At the very top is Leke James, the undisputed Nigerian goal king of the Eliteserien. Across 149 appearances for Aalesund (2012–2015) and Molde FK (2018–2020), James scored a stunning 70 goals.

His pace, intelligent movement, and sharp finishing made him a nightmare for defenders and a fan favourite. In Molde, he hit double figures consistently, cementing his status as the most lethal Nigerian striker to ever grace Norway’s top flight.