Top 10 Richest Footballers in Nigeria 2024: Forbes Edition
In 2024, Nigerian footballers continue to make their mark on the global stage, not just with their prowess on the field but also with their burgeoning bank accounts. According to Forbes, the top 10 richest Nigerian footballers have amassed impressive fortunes through lucrative contracts, endorsements, and smart investments. Here’s a detailed look at these top athletes who are not only making waves in football but also in wealth accumulation.
1. Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen tops the list as the richest footballer in Nigeria for 2024. Playing for Napoli in Serie A, Osimhen has had a stellar year, leading his team to several victories and increasing his market value exponentially. With an annual salary exceeding $8 million and endorsements with major brands like Nike and Pepsi, Osimhen’s net worth is estimated at $40 million. His recent ventures into real estate have further solidified his financial standing.
2. Wilfred Ndidi
Wilfred Ndidi, a key midfielder for Leicester City in the English Premier League, has also made significant strides in his financial journey. Known for his consistency and defensive prowess, Ndidi earns around $6 million annually. His net worth, which stands at $35 million, is bolstered by endorsements with companies such as Puma and local Nigerian brands. Ndidi has also invested in agriculture, contributing to his growing wealth.
3. Kelechi Iheanacho
Kelechi Iheanacho, Ndidi’s teammate at Leicester City, is another prominent figure in the wealth rankings. Iheanacho’s knack for scoring crucial goals has earned him a substantial salary of $5 million per year. His net worth, estimated at $32 million, includes earnings from endorsements with sportswear giants Adidas and other local ventures in Nigeria, particularly in the hospitality industry.
4. Samuel Chukwueze
Samuel Chukwueze has had an impressive career playing for AC Milan. The winger’s agility and attacking skills have made him a hot commodity in European football, with an annual income of $4.5 million. Chukwueze’s net worth of $28 million is further augmented by deals with brands like Nike and Red Bull. He has also shown interest in tech startups, investing in several promising ventures in Nigeria.
5. Alex Iwobi
Alex Iwobi, playing for Fulham, remains one of Nigeria’s wealthiest footballers with a net worth of $27 million. Iwobi’s versatility on the field translates into a hefty annual salary of $4 million. His financial portfolio is diverse, with endorsements from Nike and multiple investments in Nigerian entertainment and real estate sectors.
6. Moses Simon
Moses Simon, who plays for FC Nantes in France, is another top earner. Simon’s speed and goal-scoring abilities have not only earned him a reputation but also a significant income of $3.5 million annually. His net worth of $25 million is backed by endorsement deals with Adidas and a thriving interest in Nigerian agricultural projects.
7. Emmanuel Dennis
Emmanuel Dennis, representing Nottingham Forest, has rapidly climbed the ranks of wealth among Nigerian footballers. With a net worth of $23 million, Dennis earns a yearly salary of $3 million. His endorsements include deals with sports brands like Puma, and he has also invested in the Nigerian energy sector, focusing on renewable resources.
8. Odion Ighalo
Odion Ighalo, despite playing in the less competitive Saudi Arabian league, remains one of Nigeria’s richest footballers. Ighalo’s career earnings from various clubs have accumulated to a net worth of $22 million. He continues to earn approximately $2.5 million annually, supplemented by endorsements and significant investments in Nigerian sports academies and real estate.
9. William Troost-Ekong
William Troost-Ekong, currently playing for PAOK FC in Greece, has made a name for himself with solid performances in defense. Troost-Ekong’s salary of $2.2 million and endorsements with brands like Under Armour have helped him amass a net worth of $20 million. His investments are primarily in the Nigerian education sector, focusing on building and supporting schools in underprivileged areas.
10. Ahmed Musa
Ahmed Musa, a veteran of Nigerian football and currently playing for Sivasspor in Turkey, rounds out the top 10 list. Musa’s career has seen him play in various leagues worldwide, contributing to his net worth of $18 million. Earning $2 million annually, Musa also benefits from endorsements with Nike and has invested heavily in Nigerian transport and logistics businesses.
The wealth accumulated by these Nigerian footballers highlights their exceptional talent and business acumen. From playing in top leagues around the world to investing in various sectors in Nigeria, these athletes are not only making a name for themselves on the field but also contributing to the economy in significant ways. Their success stories serve as an inspiration to young, aspiring footballers in Nigeria and beyond.
These top 10 richest Nigerian footballers have showcased that with skill, hard work, and smart financial decisions, it is possible to achieve immense wealth and success. Their contributions to football and their investments in various industries continue to uplift their communities and set a standard for future generations.
