NPFL Breakout Star: How Gabriel Lekan Became Kun Khalifat’s Defensive Engine
2 min read
Kun Khalifat Football Club continues to make steady strides in their debut season in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), and at the heart of their defensive resilience stands one of the league’s most exciting young prospects — Gabriel Olalekan Joel, popularly known as Gabriel Lekan.
At just 18 years old, Gabriel has quickly risen to prominence as a dependable centre-back, combining youthful energy with surprising maturity. Standing at an impressive 1.78m, with a dominant right foot, he brings strength, intelligence, and remarkable composure to the Kun Khalifat backline.
Ahead of the 2025/2026 NPFL season, Kun Khalifat — newly promoted and in need of defensive reinforcement — turned to Gabriel, securing his transfer from Osun United. What was expected to be a developmental signing has instead become one of the club’s most inspired decisions.
Gabriel adapted instantly to the rigours of top-flight football. His performances, especially in high-pressure fixtures, have elevated him into the conversation of the league’s most impressive young defenders.
Impact and Achievements This Season
Since joining Kun Khalifat FC, Gabriel has become an essential fixture in the squad:
Regular starter in the NPFL, missing only two matches due to a brief injury spell
Returned from injury and immediately reinstated into the starting XI
2 goals scored from centre-back
4 appearances in the NPFL Team of the Week
Has helped Kun Khalifat maintain stability, currently sitting 16th on the NPFL table after 15 games, steering them clear of the relegation zone
His current form has been nothing short of exceptional, with football analysts describing his displays as “top notch” and “transformational” for the Enugu-based side.
Gabriel’s commanding presence is unmistakable. His height, athleticism, and strength make him a formidable barrier against opposing attackers, while his agility allows him to recover quickly and excel in one-on-one situations.
The young talented defender is known for:
Well-timed sliding tackles
Strong ball-carrying runs out of defense
Pinpoint long and short-range passing
Intelligent positioning and match reading
He has already been hailed as the leader of Kun Khalifat’s back four, injecting confidence and structure into the team’s defensive setup.
There is growing consensus among coaches, scouts, and supporters that Gabriel Lekan is one of Nigeria’s brightest young football talents. With the perfect blend of physical power, technique, and mentality, he has earned the moniker “the ultimate young defender.”
As he continues to mature and gain experience, Gabriel is widely tipped to become a major force in the NPFL — and potentially a future export to the European leagues.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
