Nigeria Defender Ekerette Udom Joins Finnish Topflight Side SJK
Nigerian defender Ekerette Udom has joined Finnish top-flight club Seinäjoen Jalkapallokerho (SJK), SportsRation reports.
The centre-back, who stands at 1.98m, was born in Uyo, Nigeria, where he started playing football in local academy teams.
Ekerette Udom made more than 50 appearances in the Nigerian top division and also featured in the CAF Confederation Cup before moving to Spain in 2024 from Rivers United.
He joined Villarreal’s organisation, playing for Villarreal B and occasionally training with the first team. He also spent time on loan at Greek club Asteras Tripolis before returning to Spain.
In 2025, Udom moved to Xerez Deportivo, where he made 29 appearances last season and scored five goals. Xerez competed in the Segunda Federación, the fourth tier of Spanish football.
SJK head coach Jarkko Wiss praised the Nigerian defender’s qualities.
“Udom is a really tall and strong centre-back, so he can be useful to us in both boxes. He already has experience of playing in Europe, which will of course help him adapt to a new league. He can help us in the important matches we have left this season, while the contract until the end of the season also gives us the opportunity to get to know him better with the future in mind.”
Ekerette Udom said he was pleased with his move to Finland and has already enjoyed his time in Seinäjoki.
“I heard a lot about Finland and the Veikkausliiga before coming here. It is a new and great experience for me to play in Finland and in Seinäjoki. I have only been here for a very short time, but the city seems peaceful and beautiful. I already like this city.”
He added:
“I am a very ambitious person and I know that we can achieve great things here together. I want to bring hard work and positivity to the team.”
SJK will hope Udom can quickly settle into the team and strengthen their defence as they continue their Veikkausliiga campaign. The club currently sit 10th in the Finnish top flight and will face Oulu on August 31, 2026.
