Everything Akintola said after becoming the 8th Nigerian in Hull City history – Okocha the first

Hull City have completed the signing of Nigerian winger David Akintola on a two-year deal, making him the eighth player from Nigeria to feature for the club, Soccernet.ng reports.

Akintola joins compatriot and Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi, who arrived earlier this summer.

Akintola follows in the footsteps of a distinguished list of Nigerians to have worn the Tigers’ colours, starting with Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha, who signed from Qatar SC in 2007. The legendary playmaker helped Hull secure promotion to the Premier League in his only season at the club. Others include Seyi Olofinjana, Hope Akpan, Dele Adebola, Sone Aluko, Ola Aina, and now Ajayi.

Speaking after completing the move, the 29-year-old could hardly hide his excitement.

“I’m very happy to be here – I cannot describe the feeling. A couple of weeks ago, the club showed interest. It was a very easy decision,” Akintola said.

“Because I was in Nigeria, I needed a visa to come, so that’s why it took a little while, but I’m very happy to finally be here.

“Growing up in Nigeria, everybody watches the Premier League. Hull have played in the Premier League before, so it’s a team I’ve known about for a very long time.

“Having the opportunity to play here now is a big privilege and I’m grateful.

“The people here are amazing – everybody has welcomed me very well. I’m looking forward to working with the head coach and bringing a good story to this great team.

“It’s a dream come true. Everybody in Nigeria wants to play in England. It’s what we watch growing up.

“I’m ready to give everything and help the team to achieve big things.”

“I cannot describe the feeling. I'm very happy to be here!”

David's first interview #hcafc

— Hull City (@HullCity) August 15, 2025

Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!

Akintola arrives with over 270 senior appearances under his belt, including 147 in the Turkish Süper Lig. His most recent spell was with Çaykur Rizespor, where he made 49 appearances, scoring four goals and registering nine assists since joining in February 2024.

The winger began his professional career at Danish club Midtjylland, enjoying a series of loan spells across Europe. In Norway, he impressed for Jerv, Haugesund – finishing as top scorer – and Rosenborg, where he netted 26 goals in total and played in eight UEFA Champions League qualifiers.

A brief period in Cyprus with Omonia Nicosia was followed by a productive 2020/21 campaign at Hatayspor, recording seven goals and seven assists in 37 games.

His performances earned him a permanent move to Adana Demirspor in 2021, where he scored 13 goals in 77 outings and helped the club secure European qualification in 2022/23.

Now in East Yorkshire, Akintola’s arrival offers Hull pace, directness, and proven experience at the top level. Fans will be eager to see him link up with Ajayi as the Tigers look to mount a strong Championship campaign.