Akure, Ondo State – Sunshine Stars’ long-serving captain and former Nigeria junior international, Sunday Abe, has officially announced his retirement from professional football after an illustrious 18-year career. The 33-year-old defender made the announcement on Wednesday in Akure, marking the end of a significant chapter in Nigerian football.

“After thoughtful consideration, I’m announcing my immediate retirement from professional football after about two decades of active service as a player,” Abe said. Reflecting on his career, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to spend the majority of his playing years at Sunshine Stars FC of Akure, his boyhood club. He also acknowledged his time with Teuta Durres FC of Albania, adding that he felt honored to have represented Nigeria on the international stage.

Abe’s international career includes participation in the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and World Cup qualifiers, as well as the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt. He later graduated to the national U-23 team and the Home-Based Super Eagles in 2010.

“No matter the circumstances, football is still part of me,” Abe said, signaling his readiness to transition into football roles off the field. He already possesses two coaching certificates and has been preparing for backroom and boardroom roles in the sport.

Abe’s journey began with the Ondo State Football Development Committee, where he rose through the ranks before being promoted to Sunshine Stars’ first team in 2006. In 2007, he was part of the Golden Eaglets team that competed in the U-17 AFCON and World Cup qualifiers. Although an injury prevented him from participating in the World Cup in South Korea, where Nigeria emerged victorious under the late coach Yemi Tella, Abe remained a key figure in Nigerian youth football.

In 2009, he was part of the Flying Eagles squad that competed in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt, playing alongside notable players like Odion Ighalo, Obiora Nwankwo, and Rabiu Ibrahim. He was also invited to the home-based Super Eagles in 2010 under the guidance of the late coach Shuaibu Amodu.

Abe was named captain of Sunshine Stars in 2013, leading the team for 17 seasons in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). His final match for the club was a 1-0 away victory over Doma United on June 19, a crucial win that ensured Sunshine Stars’ safety in the topflight.

As he steps away from the pitch, Sunday Abe’s legacy as a dedicated and influential leader at Sunshine Stars FC and his contributions to Nigerian football will undoubtedly be remembered. His commitment to the sport is set to continue in his new roles off the field, where he plans to contribute to the development of the game in Nigeria.