Exclusive: FK Shiroka’s Olamide Ogungbire On Growth, Challenges And National Team Aspiration

Speedysports sat down for an exclusive conversation with Olamide Ogungbire Gabriel, the promising Nigerian forward making waves in Albania’s Kategoria e Dytë with FK Shiroka.

Still early in his European journey, Olamide has already begun carving out a reputation as a hardworking striker with ambition, resilience and a clear vision for the future.

In this insightful interview, he opens up about adapting to life abroad, the sharp contrast between football in Nigeria and Albania, his aspirations for a top–league breakthrough and his lifelong dream of representing the Super Eagles.

Adapting to life in Albania was initially difficult but he has since gone on settle down;

“Honestly, it wasn’t easy at first. Everything felt different. The food, the language and the weather mostly, but with time, I was able to settle in. My teammates and coaches have really been supportive and I’ve even learnt the basics of the language. Now, I’m more comfortable both on and off the pitch.”

Reflecting on the difference between playing in Nigeria’s NNL and competing in Albania, Olamide highlighted the contrasting styles;

“The NNL back home is very physical with very strong players, tough pitches and a very high intensity. Here, the game is more tactical. You have to think faster, move smarter and be technically brilliant. Both leagues are competitive but playing here has really helped me develop tactically and technically as a player.”

His first season at FK Shiroka was mainly an adaptation phase—learning the system, understanding the football culture and finding his rhythm. This season, Olamide feels more confident, more connected with his teammates and fully settled into the team’s playing style;

“It’s been a great experience. My first season was more about adaptation, learning the style and settling in. This season, I feel more confident and connected with the team. I understand the football better and I’m enjoying every game”

Looking ahead, his ambitions are clear. In five years, he sees himself competing in one of Europe’s top leagues;

“In five years, I see myself playing in one of Europe’s top leagues, that’s my dream. I want to keep improving, stay consistent, never stop working hard and making my mark globally. And of course, representing my country would be a huge honor. That’s my dad’s dream and I really hope it becomes a reality. He has been the biggest motivation in my career.”

For now, his immediate target with FK Shiroka is promotion. The team has made great progress and is united in its push to reach the top division;

“The main goal is promotion. We’ve come a long way and everyone in the team is focused on finishing strong. We believe in ourselves, and with hard work and unity, we can make it to the top division.”

“I’m happy with how things are going, but I want more as we know every striker wants to score in every game. We’re always hungry for more but sometimes it just does not come.

“The most important for me is never to lose my focus and confidence, although, my personal target is to hit double digits before the end of the season. At least, 15 goals or more and maybe some assists. At the end of the day, what matters most is helping the team win.”

Olamide also touched on difficult experiences, including instances of racism. While some people have been respectful and supportive, he acknowledged that the problem persists. He chooses to stay mentally strong and not allow such moments to affect him;

“To be honest, I’ve experienced things like that here. Some of the people have however been respectful and supportive. Whilst I feel we still have a long way to curb racism in football, I do well to not allow myself get susceptible to it.”

On the wider football landscape, he noted that contracts and conditions differ across leagues but praised Albania for producing top talents in recent years;

“It’s relative. Leagues differ, and players contract also differ. However, there’s no doubt that Albania have been one of the best talent producing countries in the world considering the last decade. That’s what I’m focused on improving so I can get a dream move to one of the top European leagues.”

Despite adapting well abroad, Olamide admitted he misses home; family, friends and Nigerian food;

“Of course, I miss home. My family, my friends and Nigerian foods especially. Nigeria will always be home to me.

“As for international allegiance, my dream has always been to wear the Super Eagles’ jersey and it has also been my dad’s wish for me to play for our dear country. It remains my ultimate dream. However, I’m focused on my club and doing my best here for now. Thank You

Olamide’s journey reflects the resilience, ambition, and hunger that define many young Nigerian footballers carving out careers abroad.

From adapting to life in Albania to setting bold targets for his future, his determination remains unwavering.

With his eyes firmly set on a move to Europe’s top leagues and a dream of representing the Super Eagles, Olamide continues to push forward with humility and hard work.

As he strives toward promotion with FK Shiroka, his story serves as an inspiring reminder that dedication, belief, and consistency can turn even the boldest dreams into reality.