Olisa Ndah: Orlando Pirates Announce Surprising Exit on Transfer Deadline Day
- Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departure of Nigerian international Olisa Ndah after spending close to five years with the club
- The Premier Soccer League giants made the announcement a few hours before the January transfer windows closed in South Africa
- The Sea Robbers have let go of so many players this January, and also made quality signings from clubs in the Betway Premiership
Orlando Pirates have taken the unexpected step of ending their association with experienced defender Olisa Ndah during the ongoing January transfer window.
Source: Getty Images
The Nigerian centre-back has barely featured for the Buccaneers over the past year after suffering a serious injury in the previous Betway Premiership campaign.
Having recently regained full fitness, Ndah made his return to action in the Carling All Stars Cup, which the Buccaneers won, where he partnered Thabiso Sesane in central defence shortly before the 2025 AFCON break in December 2025.
Whenever he was available for selection, Ndah generally delivered reliable and assured performances for Pirates, although persistent injury setbacks disrupted what could have been a more consistent spell at the club.
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In this January transfer window, Pirates have also confirmed the departure of Katlego ‘Kuruman’ Cwinyane, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, who returned to his former club Chippa United, Kobamelo Kodisang, with Siyabonga Ndlozi and Sifiso Luthuli also being loaned out to Magesi FC.
Ndah's time with Orlando Pirates
Ndah joined Pirates in August 2021 from Nigerian Professional Football League side, Akwa United, where he played a key role in securing the Nigerian club’s maiden league title. During his time with the Sea Robbers, the strong defender amassed 81 appearances in all competitions and found the net once.
The Super Eagles star faced stiff competition for a starting berth at the club, battling with the likes of Spouth African international s Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki, Thabiso Sesane and Lebone Seema. The situation became even tougher this window following the signing of another centre-back, Mpho Chabatsane, which further limited his chances of regular football.
The former Akwa United defender was expected to stay till the end of this season despite his injury issues after Pirates lost Mbekezeli Mbokazi to a Major League Soccer side this January, but the club had other options to fill the position.
Source: Getty Images
Pirates announce Ndah's exit
On Thursday, January 29, 2026, Pirates officially confirmed Ndah’s exit, explaining that the 28-year-old had asked to be released early from a contract that was due to expire in June 2026.
In a statement published on the club’s website, The Soweto giants confirmed that the decision followed mutual discussions between the player and management. The club noted that Ndah’s request was motivated by a desire to secure consistent playing time elsewhere as he moves into the next stage of his career.
The Buccaneers praised Ndah’s impact since joining in 2021, highlighting his physical presence, defensive strength and composure on the ball, qualities that made him an important figure in the backline during a key period for the team. They also commended his professionalism and discipline, both on and off the field, across more than 80 outings in the famous black and white.
Acknowledging his openness and honesty throughout the talks, Pirates said the agreement was reached in a spirit of respect and understanding. The club concluded by thanking Ndah for his commitment and service, and wished him well in his future endeavours as he continues his football journey.
Ouaddou explains why he's not worried
Briefly News also reported that Abdeslam Ouaddou explained why he's not bothered despite Orlando Pirates dropping points against Sekhukhune United in the Betway Premiership.
The former Marumo Gallants head coach has been unable to beat Babina Noko in the league this season, after losing the first leg against Eric Tinkler's side.
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Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
