A Comprehensive List of The Highest Paid Footballers in Nigeria
In recent years, Nigerian footballers have not only solidified their places in top-tier clubs across Europe and Asia, but they have also become some of the highest paid footballers in the sport. Their journey from grassroots academies and local league competitions to world-class stadiums is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and exceptional talent. Today, Nigerian footballers are not only representing the country with pride but also setting financial benchmarks globally.
As of April 2025, many Nigerian players are drawing attention not just for their performances but also for their staggering earnings. Whether playing in the elite leagues of England, Italy, Germany, France, Turkey, or Saudi Arabia, these footballers are raking in impressive annual salaries that highlight their value and marketability.
This detailed report sheds light on the top 11 highest-paid footballers from Nigeria in 2025. These figures reflect not just club wages, but also endorsements, bonuses, and long-term deals that enhance their annual take-home pay. From young rising stars like Victor Boniface to seasoned veterans like Odion Ighalo, this list paints a comprehensive picture of the earning power of Nigerian athletes in global football.
So, who are the highest paid footballers hailing from Nigeria? How much do they earn annually? What leagues and clubs are currently valuing Nigerian talent the most? This exhaustive breakdown will answer all those questions and more, ranking the elite eleven from the lowest to the highest in annual income. Let’s dive in.
11. Moses Simon – FC Nantes (€2.65 million/year)
Moses Simon, an agile winger, plays for FC Nantes in France’s Ligue 1. Known for his quick feet, dribbling prowess, and tactical flexibility, Simon’s consistent performances have secured him a substantial annual income of €2.65 million. Simon remains integral to both his club and the Nigerian national team’s attacking strategy.
10. Calvin Bassey – Fulham FC (€2.98 million/year)
Calvin Bassey, who has become a defensive lynchpin at Fulham, earns €2.98 million annually. His versatility as both a central and left-sided defender makes him invaluable in Premier League fixtures. His solid defensive record highlights why he remains among Nigeria’s top earners.
9. Taiwo Awoniyi – Nottingham Forest (€3.37 million/year)
Taiwo Awoniyi’s strength and finishing skills have been crucial to Nottingham Forest’s ambitions in the Premier League. Earning €3.37 million per year, Awoniyi has solidified his reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading forwards, known for his physicality and clinical goal-scoring abilities.
8. Kelechi Iheanacho – Middlesbrough FC (on loan from Sevilla FC) (~€3.6 million/year)
Kelechi Iheanacho is currently on loan at Middlesbrough FC from Sevilla FC. While at Middlesbrough, the club covers about 80% of his wages, paying him approximately £60,000 per week, equivalent to roughly €3.6 million annually. Should Middlesbrough qualify for the playoffs, his earnings could increase to 100% of his Sevilla contract value (~£75,000/week). The Nigerian forward brings goal-scoring instinct and experience, having also scored recently for Boro in a crucial league game. His current stint marks a continuation of his journey from Leicester City to Sevilla, and now, the Championship.
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7. Joe Aribo – Southampton FC (€4.66 million/year)
Joe Aribo earns €4.66 million annually at Southampton FC, reflecting his crucial role in their midfield. Aribo’s vision, passing accuracy, and stamina have made him indispensable, both in defensive roles and in driving attacks forward, thus justifying his position among Nigeria’s top earners.
6. Samuel Chukwueze – AC Milan (€4.84 million/year)
Samuel Chukwueze, a talented winger, earns €4.84 million per year with AC Milan. Renowned for his speed, dribbling skills, and ability to beat defenders, Chukwueze has made an immediate impact in Serie A, providing critical assists and goals for his club.
5. Wilfred Ndidi – Leicester City (€5.05 million/year)
Wilfred Ndidi, a midfield powerhouse for Leicester City, commands an annual salary of €5.05 million. Ndidi’s defensive acumen, tackling accuracy, and ability to disrupt opposition plays have made him one of the most valuable midfielders in European football.
4. Alex Iwobi – Fulham FC (€5.57 million/year)
Versatile midfielder Alex Iwobi earns €5.57 million annually at Fulham FC. Iwobi has demonstrated adaptability, playing effectively in multiple midfield and forward positions. His creativity and consistent performances underline his position among the highest-paid Nigerian footballers.
3. Victor Boniface – Bayer 04 Leverkusen (€6 million/year)
Victor Boniface plays as a striker for Bayer 04 Leverkusen in the Bundesliga. Known for his goal-scoring prowess and physical presence, Boniface earns an impressive €6 million per year, having become a crucial player for the German club and one of Nigeria’s most influential football exports.
2. Odion Ighalo – Al-Wehda FC (€9 million/year)
Veteran forward Odion Ighalo plays for Al-Wehda FC in Saudi Arabia, earning a hefty €9 million annually. Ighalo brings vast experience, leadership, and goal-scoring proficiency, making him a pivotal figure for his club and an influential personality in Nigerian football.
1. Victor Osimhen – Galatasaray SK (€10 million/year)
Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s highest-paid footballer, earns €10 million annually at Galatasaray SK. Known for his exceptional scoring ability, pace, and technical skill, Osimhen has consistently delivered at the highest levels. His remarkable performance at Napoli and continued success in Turkey’s Süper Lig highlight his global stature.
These exceptional athletes exemplify Nigerian football’s growing influence globally. Their significant earnings reflect their outstanding talent, dedication, and immense contribution to the sport.
