Stanley Nwabali has parted ways with Chippa United, the club announced on Thursday morning.
Nwabali, 29, joined the Chilli boys back in 2022 and his contract was due to expire in June 2026 but was mutually terminated.
Chippa United released a statement where it confirmed that their Nigerian shot stopper submitted a request for the termination of his contract. After a period of deliberation by the parties a common ground was reached.
We Say Our Goodbye 🇳🇬🌶️ pic.twitter.com/Uux8Wl7ipl
— Chippa United FC (@ChippaUnitedFC) February 5, 2026
Despite a cordial relationship in the early days of joining the club, Nwabali’s final days with Chippa United proved to be topsy turvy.
Following his impressive performance at the 2024 AFCON where Nigeria finished as runner-up, Nwabali was linked with moves away from Chippa United.
Club officials had also confirmed the Nigerian was more likely to leave, however no ‘serious’ offers were received. The fallout with the player was eventually settled with an improved short term deal with improved pay and the captaincy as compensation.
However now with four months to the end of his deal, the 29 year-old severed ties with the club.
He shared a farewell message on his X account after the club’s announcement.
It was more than a family❤️. To my lovely teammates, dear coaches, amazing fans and great chairman. As I stand here to say farewell, a part of me will always remain with this club. I wish you success and happiness in the seasons ahead.
Thank you and farewell. Until we meet again pic.twitter.com/d0BTUCWjMH— Nwabali Stanley bobo (M.O.N) (@NwabaliBobo) February 5, 2026
Stanley Nwabali has been Nigeria’s first choice goalkeeper since 2023, reaching two AFCON tournaments.
The goalkeeper was in the middle of the towel-gate with Stadium stewards during the last AFCON in Morocco, in the semi-finals against the Atlas Lions.
He responded to Morocco’s defeat in the final to Senegal with a dig at the team in his X post:
Make Una use all my towel Una carry wipe Una tears 🤷🏻 pic.twitter.com/vFKTxdMyWF
— Nwabali Stanley bobo (M.O.N) (@NwabaliBobo) January 19, 2026
Nigeria won bronze, defeating Egypt 4-2 on penalties with Nwabali making two saves to win the MOTM award.
