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Victor Sochima, the Nigerian goalkeeper, has completed a two-year move to Zambian Super League side Zesco United. He arrives from South Sudanese club Jamus FC, where he played a vital role in winning the league and cup in his half-season stint.

The 26 year old shot-stopper will be the direct replacement for Toaster Nsabata, whose contract recently expired.

Zesco United confirmed the acquisition on their official website, stating: "We’re thrilled to announce the signing of Nigerian international goalkeeper Sochima Victor Ndukauba, aka ‘Odogwu’ or ‘SochiBig16’! With a proven track record of excellence, Sochi joins us from Jamus FC in South Sudan, where he won the SSPL league and cup in a remarkable half-season stint."

Sochima previously featured for Rivers United and Tanzanian club Tabora United.

With this signing, Zesco United are gearing up for their CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary round fixture against Gabonese side FC 105.

Editorial

We welcome Victor Sochima’s transfer as a refreshing example of the potential inherent in African footballing pathways. His move to Zesco United marks a clear and ambitious statement that talent does not need to pass through Europe to be recognised.

Sochima’s journey rising through Nigeria’s Rivers United, then traversing leagues in Tanzania and South Sudan before landing in Zambia illustrates the varied routes African may take. His decision to embrace these opportunities emphasises a growing belief in the quality and professionalism found across the continent’s leagues.

This is a moment for reflection. Too often, African footballers are encouraged to look exclusively beyond our borders for success. Yet here is a case that challenges that narrative. Zesco United have shown they are not merely a stepping stone; they are a destination worth pursuing. Their ambition in the CAF Confederation Cup demonstrates what African clubs can offer a stage, competition, and respect.

We believe this transfer offers lessons for Nigerian football. Domestic players must see that success is not solely defined by a move to Europe. Worth can be found—and proven—right here within Africa. Sochima’s new chapter underlines that when homegrown talent is given the right platform, it can flourish just as brightly.

Did You Know?

1. 
   
2. Zesco United are based in Ndola and are nicknamed "Team Ya Ziko," a reference to Zambia’s electricity giant ZESCO.
   
   
3. Toaster Nsabata, the goalkeeper Sochima replaces, recently joined South Africa’s Sekhukhune United.
   
   
4. Sochima’s nickname "Odogwu" in Igbo roughly translates to "big man" or "heroic figure" in English.
   
   
5. Zesco United regularly compete in African competitions, including the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.
   
   
6. Victor Sochima had a spell in Tanzanian football with Tabora United before moving to Jamus FC in South Sudan.