West Nile football is once again in the national spotlight after record Ugandan champions SC Villa reached deep into the region's talent pool to snap up Arua Airfield FC's rising star, Tonny "Zuzu" Asiku.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder was unveiled this evening after completing a switch to the Jogoos on a four-year contract that will run from the 2026/27 season to 2029/2030, marking one of the biggest individual moves out of the region in recent memory.
For a player from the West Nile Regional League to sign for a topflight outfit, this is no small feat. Asiku cut his teeth at Arua Airfield, where his vision, close control and eye for launching offense against opponents turned heads well beyond the West Nile sub-region.
Villa's move to quickly secure his signature is a big boost to the Jogoos as they build a squad they hope can compete at the very top of Ugandan football in the next seasons.
The SC Villa website writes in praise of Asiku as a player who thrives with quality in the middle of the park.
Known for his creativity, technical ability and attacking instincts, Asiku adds further quality and depth to the Jogoos' midfield department as the club continues to strengthen its squad ahead of the new campaign.
For a part of the country sometimes overlooked in Uganda's football conversation, Asiku's four-year deal is a statement: West Nile talent belongs on the biggest stages, and the Villa Park scouts know it.
Villa had also been home to West Nile Province goalkeeper Norman Angufindru for the previous three seasons before announcing his departure last week following the expiry of his contract at Villa Park. He was unveiled yesterday at Kigezi Homeboyz.
