Leonard Obinna’s long-anticipated introduction to top-flight football became reality on Sunday as the young midfielder made his Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) debut for Enyimba International FC in a 1-1 draw away to Bayelsa United.

The 19-year-old right winger, who joined the People’s Elephant at the start of the 2024/25 season, was introduced late in the second half at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, providing a composed and energetic cameo during the final seven minutes of a tense encounter.

Obinna’s league debut follows his maiden outing for the club earlier in the month in the Abia State final of the President Cup — formerly the FA Cup — where he featured for 20 minutes in a goalless draw against Ahudiya Nnem FC. Enyimba were eventually defeated 3-1 in the ensuing penalty shootout.

Speaking after his NPFL bow, Obinna expressed delight at achieving a milestone he had long set his sights on.

“It’s a moment I’ve been working towards for a long time,” he said. “Wearing the Enyimba shirt in an NPFL match is a dream come true. I’m thankful to the coaches and my teammates for believing in me.”

Despite his limited minutes so far, Obinna remains determined to earn a regular place in Stanley Eguma’s squad as the campaign unfolds. With Enyimba aiming to reclaim their dominance in Nigerian football, the young midfielder is now well positioned to push for more playing time in what could prove to be a defining season in his burgeoning career.