Richest Footballer in Nigeria – Top 10 Wealthiest

Top 10 Richest Footballer in Nigeria

Richest Footballer in Nigeria

The world of football is not only about the action on the field but also the financial success that comes with it. Nigeria, known for producing talented footballers, has its fair share of wealthy players. The richest footballers in Nigeria have not only excelled in their sport but have also made significant strides in accumulating substantial net worth through their football contracts, endorsement deals, and business ventures. These players have not only represented their country on the international stage but have also achieved success playing for top clubs in prestigious leagues around the world. Their financial success showcases their talent, dedication, and ability to leverage their status as football stars to build a significant fortune. From impressive salaries to lucrative endorsement deals and investments, these players have established themselves as not only icons in Nigerian football but also among the wealthiest athletes in the country.

1. John Mikel Obi (£45–60 million)

John Mikel Obi, a Nigerian football legend, tops the list as the richest footballer in Nigeria, with an estimated net worth of £45–60 million. Mikel had a successful 10-year career at Chelsea, where he earned a significant amount of money before moving to Shanghai Shenhua for a lucrative deal. In addition to his football earnings, Mikel has diversified his investments. He reportedly owns an interstate transport company headquartered in Jos, Plateau State, and also operates a record label called Mature Money Minds (MMM), which signed several artists upon its launch in 2012. Mikel’s business ventures have contributed to his wealth, making him one of the most affluent Nigerian footballers of all time.

2. Obafemi Martins (£35–40 million)

Obafemi Martins, ranking second on the list, has established himself as one of Nigeria’s richest footballers, with a net worth estimated at £35–40 million. Throughout his illustrious playing career, Martins represented notable clubs such as Inter Milan, Newcastle United, and Wolfsburg. His success on the field translated into financial gains, enabling him to accumulate significant wealth. Since retiring from professional football, Martins has focused on various business ventures to maintain his affluence. He reportedly generates income from car importation and has invested in real estate properties. Martins’ shrewd business acumen and successful football career have contributed to his status as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest footballers.

3. Odion Ighalo (£30–40 million)

Odion Ighalo, ranked third on the list, is among the highest-paid Nigerian footballers, with a net worth ranging from £30–40 million. Ighalo’s career has seen him play for several clubs, with notable stints at Shanghai Shenhua in the Chinese League and a loan spell at Manchester United. These lucrative contracts, especially during his time in China, have significantly contributed to his wealth accumulation. Currently playing for Saudi club Al-Hilal, Ighalo enjoys a reported weekly wage of £135,000. Besides his football earnings, Ighalo has ventured into other business endeavors to bolster his financial portfolio. Although specific details are not provided, his diverse investments have played a role in solidifying his position as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest footballers.

4. Ahmed Musa (£25–40 million)

Ahmed Musa, ranking fourth on the list, is a Nigerian football star with a net worth estimated between £25–40 million. Musa’s career has taken him to various clubs, including his current stint at Turkish side Sivasspor. While his current weekly wage is comparatively modest at £16,000, Musa has enjoyed more significant financial rewards earlier in his career. Alongside his football earnings, Musa has diversified his investments. He is reported to own filling stations and a multimillion-naira sports and fitness center in Kano, showcasing his entrepreneurial endeavors. Musa’s investments, coupled with his football success, have propelled him to become one of the richest footballers in Nigeria.

5. Victor Moses (£25–40 million)

Victor Moses, currently playing for Spartak Moscow, has had a successful career both at the Nigerian National Team and various clubs, notably Chelsea. During his time at Chelsea, Moses earned £75,000 per week, contributing to his substantial earnings. Combined with his salaries and endorsement deals, Moses’ net worth is estimated to be between £25–40 million, placing him as one of the richest footballers in Nigeria. Moses has also ventured into businesses, capitalizing on his popularity and success in the football industry. His entrepreneurial endeavors, along with his football earnings, have contributed to his significant wealth.

6. Yakubu Aiyegbeni (£15–20 million)

Yakubu Aiyegbeni, known as “The Yak,” has established himself as one of the best strikers during the Premier League era and one of the wealthiest Nigerian footballers today. Throughout his career, Aiyegbeni played for notable clubs such as Portsmouth, Everton, and Middlesbrough, amassing a substantial fortune. Besides his football achievements, Aiyegbeni has invested in various business ventures, particularly in the real estate sector. He is reported to own a hotel business and petrol stations, which have further contributed to his estimated net worth of £15–20 million. Aiyegbeni’s success on and off the field has solidified his position among the richest footballers in Nigeria.

7. Emmanuel Emenike (£10–15 million)

Emmanuel Emenike, a former Nigerian international and winner of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), has had a notable career playing for several clubs across different leagues. Emenike’s professional journey included stints at Fenerbahce, Spartak Moscow, Cape Town, West Ham, and Olympiacos, among others. Off the field, Emenike has made significant investments in real estate, including the ownership of EE29 hotels and suites. These ventures, along with his football earnings, have contributed to his estimated net worth of £10–15 million. Emenike’s success in both football and business has solidified his position among the richest footballers in Nigeria.

8. Wilfred Ndidi (£8–15 million)

Wilfred Ndidi, a talented defensive midfielder, ranks 8th among the richest footballers in Nigeria, with an estimated net worth ranging from £8 million to £15 million. Ndidi is a key player for Leicester City in the Premier League, earning a weekly wage of £76,000. Throughout his career, he has accumulated an impressive £23 million in football salaries. Apart from his on-field success, Ndidi is also involved in various business ventures and endorsement deals, which contribute to his overall net worth. Known for his exceptional skills and defensive prowess, Ndidi has made a significant impact both on and off the pitch.

9. Kelechi Iheanacho (£8–10 million)

Kelechi Iheanacho, colloquially referred to as ‘senior man,’ holds the 9th position on the list of the richest footballers in Nigeria. With an estimated net worth of £8 million to £10 million, Iheanacho has established himself as a prominent figure in English football. He has had a successful career in the Premier League, representing Manchester City and currently playing for Leicester City. Iheanacho’s weekly wage stands at an impressive £90,000, totaling £4,680,000 per year. Alongside his football earnings, he has made investments in real estate and can be seen with luxury cars, showcasing his financial success both on and off the field.

10. Alex Iwobi (£6–10 million)

Alex Iwobi secures the 10th spot among the richest footballers in Nigeria, with an estimated net worth ranging from £6 million to £10 million. The talented midfielder currently plays for Everton in the Premier League, where he earns a remarkable weekly wage of £100,000, amounting to £5,200,000 per year. Iwobi previously showcased his skills at Arsenal, earning £53,000 per week. His financial success extends beyond his football career, as he is involved in numerous endorsement deals in Nigeria and overseas. Additionally, Iwobi is set for a contract renewal with Everton, which is expected to further boost his net worth. Recognized as one of Nigeria’s brightest football stars, Iwobi’s off-the-pitch endeavors contribute significantly to his overall wealth and status in the football world.

What are the Notable Achievements and Career Highlights of the Richest Nigerian Footballer?

1. John Mikel Obi:

John Mikel Obi, also known as John Obi Mikel, is considered one of Nigeria’s most accomplished footballers. He rose to prominence during his time at Chelsea FC, where he spent 11 successful seasons from 2006 to 2017. Mikel played a vital role in Chelsea’s numerous achievements, including two English Premier League titles, three FA Cups, the UEFA Champions League, and the UEFA Europa League.

2. Obafemi Martins:

Obafemi Martins is a Nigerian footballer known for his exceptional speed and goal-scoring ability. He has enjoyed a successful career, playing for several top clubs across Europe and Asia. Martins’ notable achievements include winning the UEFA Intertoto Cup with Newcastle United, the FA Cup with Birmingham City, and the Chinese FA Cup with Shanghai Shenhua. He has also represented the Nigerian national team and competed in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

3. Odion Ighalo:

Odion Ighalo gained prominence as a Nigerian striker with an impressive goal-scoring record. He achieved notable success during his time at Watford FC, where he played a significant role in helping the team secure promotion to the English Premier League. Ighalo’s career highlights include winning the Chinese FA Cup and finishing as the top scorer in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where he represented the Nigerian national team.

4. Ahmed Musa:

Ahmed Musa is a Nigerian forward who has enjoyed a successful career both domestically and internationally. He has played for top clubs in Europe, including CSKA Moscow and Leicester City. Musa’s notable achievements include winning multiple Russian Premier League titles with CSKA Moscow and scoring two memorable goals for Nigeria against Argentina in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups.

5. Victor Moses:

Victor Moses is a versatile Nigerian footballer who has played in various positions, including winger and wing-back. He played a key role in Chelsea’s success during their Premier League title-winning campaign in the 2016-2017 season. Moses has also represented the Nigerian national team and was an instrumental part of their triumph in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, where he won the tournament’s Best XI award.

6. Yakubu Aiyegbeni:

Yakubu Aiyegbeni, known as Yakubu, is one of Nigeria’s most prolific goal scorers. He had a successful career playing for various clubs in England, including Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, and Everton. Yakubu achieved notable milestones, such as becoming the highest-scoring Nigerian in Premier League history and being part of Nigeria’s squad in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

7. Emmanuel Emenike:

Emmanuel Emenike is a Nigerian striker who made a significant impact in both domestic and international football. He played for clubs like Fenerbahçe and Spartak Moscow, where he showcased his goal-scoring prowess. Emenike was a crucial member of the Nigerian team that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and represented the country in the FIFA World Cup.

8. Wilfred Ndidi:

Wilfred Ndidi is a highly regarded Nigerian midfielder who has gained recognition for his outstanding performances. He joined Leicester City in 2017 and quickly established himself as a key player for the team. Ndidi’s contributions helped Leicester City win the FA Cup in 2021, and he has also been an integral part of the Nigerian national team, representing his country in major tournaments.

9. Kelechi Iheanacho:

Kelechi Iheanacho is a talented Nigerian forward who has showcased his skills at both club and international level. He began his career at Manchester City before moving to Leicester City in 2017. Iheanacho has contributed significantly to Leicester City’s success, including their FA Cup victory in 2021. He has also represented Nigeria and played a pivotal role in their qualification for major tournaments.

10. Alex Iwobi:

Alex Iwobi is a versatile Nigerian attacking midfielder who emerged from Arsenal’s youth academy. He showcased his talent during his time at Arsenal before transferring to Everton in 2019. Iwobi has represented Nigeria in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and has been recognized for his creativity and technical abilities on the field.

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