Sports

Ozoemena Returns To Training After ₦14 Million Surgery, Insurance Welcome Back Joshua Baba

Published October 11, 2026 at 2:09 PM

Key Takeaways

Rivers United confirmed goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena has returned to full training after career-threatening surgery, giving the Port Harcourt club a boost in the league campaign.
Rivers United said it spent about ₦14 million on Ozoemena’s surgery and paid all rehabilitation costs, calling it part of its player-first welfare policy.
Bendel Insurance confirmed goalkeeper Joshua Baba rejoined the squad in Lagos after being declared AWOL, ahead of the Matchday eight game against Sporting Lagos.

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) club Rivers United have confirmed that their goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena has returned to full training after undergoing career-threatening surgery.

Ozoemena’s return follows a recovery programme fully funded by Rivers United, with the Port Harcourt club reportedly spending about ₦14 million on his surgery and covering all rehabilitation expenses.

The club said the goalkeeper did not have to worry about medical bills throughout his treatment, describing the support as part of its commitment to prioritising player welfare.

“This is part of the club’s wider player-first approach,” Rivers United said in a statement on Friday.

In March 2026, the club reaffirmed its commitment to supporting players through injuries and rehabilitation, citing Ozoemena’s case as an example. Rivers United also highlighted the recovery of right-back Ebuka Akobundu, who returned to action after spending 378 days on the sidelines with an abdominal injury.

Ozoemena’s return to full training represents a boost for Rivers United as they continue their league campaign, following an extended period of recovery from a serious injury.

Meanwhile, Bendel Insurance have confirmed that Joshua Baba has rejoined the squad after previously declaring the goalkeeper absent without official leave (AWOL).

The former Enyimba goalkeeper sustained an injury during Bendel Insurance’s Matchday 1 fixture against Warri Wolves at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.

Naija News reports that Insurance granted him two weeks to recover before he travelled to Plateau State to visit his family. However, his failure to return to Benin City within the approved period prompted the management to declare him AWOL.

According to Bendel Insurance, Baba resurfaced in Lagos on Saturday night and joined his teammates at their hotel as they prepared for the Matchday 8 encounter against Sporting Lagos.

The Benin-based club also thanked media organisations and other stakeholders for their involvement following its earlier announcement about the goalkeeper’s absence.

“The management of Bendel Insurance FC also wishes to use this opportunity to express its sincere appreciation to members of the media and other key stakeholders who have played various roles since the club issued its earlier statement declaring the goalkeeper AWOL,” the club said.

“Bendel Insurance FC remains committed to upholding the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, and accountability in all its dealings.”

Author:

Ernest Victor

Victor Ernest Osong is a passionate communicator, teacher, poet, well-trained journalist, creative strategist, purpose-driven storyteller, and realist. With a strong foundation in writing, editing, content development, and leadership, he specializes in shaping narratives that inform, inspire, and ignite action. Email: [email protected]