Sports
Highest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn

Highest-Paid footballer from Nigeria
The phrase “Naija no dey carry last” has been evident in football recently as there has been an influx of Nigerian footballers playing abroad. Football is the most popular sport in Nigeria with millions of fans supporting their clubs abroad. Nigeria has always been a home of incredible football talents and with more amazing young footballers showing in recent years, the weekly wages of Nigerian footballers has been on a rise.
The huge wages being paid to Nigerian footballers isn’t a surprise as the impact of the players is evident in those teams. Aside from the high wages they earn, Naija footballers are being traded for a huge amount of money. In the summer of 2020, Victor Oshimen became the most expensive African footballer of all time as he joined Napoli from Lille for about $80 million-plus add-on. Hardly any top European league without a Nigerian footballer performing at a high level and earning huge wages. A good sign for the Super Eagles as the national squad is now full of top talents.
We have decided to go on an adventure to reveal the highest-paid footballers from Nigeria, who are also featured in the best football predictions bettors will find on Takebet Nigeria. We have searched all leagues where Nigerian players compete, from European leagues such as English Premier League, Spanish La Liga, Serie A, Ligue 1, Bundesliga to other top leagues.
Let’s dig into the list of the highest-paid footballers from Nigeria.
Odion Ighalo – Striker, Al-Hilal – $170,000 (last know)
Odion Ighalo is one of the most popular Nigerian players. The striker became the first Nigerian international to play for Manchester United after he joined the club on loan from the Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua in January 2020. Odion Ighalo scored five goals in 23 appearances before returning to Shanghai Shenhua at the end of his loan.
The Nigerian international joined Saudi Arabia’s Al Shabab from the Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua in 2021. Ighalo scored 10 league goals in 19 appearances for Shanghai Shenhua. Odion made his debut in 2005 and moved to Europe in 2008 where he joined Udinese. The Nigerian international joined Watford during the 2014-15 and scored 36 league goals in 90 appearances for the club.
Odion Ighalo represented the Super Eagles during the 2018 World Cup. The Nigerian international holds the record for the most goals scored during a single Africa Cup of Nations with seven goals in 2019.
Ighalo earned $170,000 per week in Al Shabab. Odion Ighalo joins Al-Hilal, another Saudi football club, after the AFCON 2021. His salary in the new club is currently unknown, but the striker is sure to keep his #1 spot.
Victor Osimhen – Striker, Napoli – $110,000
Victor Osimhen is currently one of the best strikers in Europe. The Nigerian international has been amazing for Napoli this season after a slow start to life in the Italian Club. Victor Osimhen became the most expensive Africa striker in history after he joined Napoli from Lille for a fee of about $80 million in the winter transfer of 2020.
The Napoli striker has scored 19 goals in 45 appearances for the Italian side. Osimhen had an incredible rise to glory as he wasn’t able to join either Zulte Waregem or Club Brugge in his early days due to Malaria. Victor was in Nigeria’s under-17 team that won the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup. The Nigerian international won the Golden Boot in the tournament with 10 goals. He also won the Silver Ball award during the tournament.
Osimhen missed out on the 2018 World Cup squad. He made his debut for the national team in 2017. The Nigerian international made the squad for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and has been brilliant since then. He has scored 10 goals in 18 appearances for the national team.
Victor currently plays in Napoli and he earns $110,000 per week.
Wilfred Ndidi – Midfielder, Leicester City – $100,000
Wilfred Ndidi is currently one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. The Nigerian international has been incredible since he joined Leicester City from Genk in the winter transfer of 2017 for $20m. Ndidi has scored 10 goals in 196 appearances since he joined the club.
The Nigerian international won the most tackles in the Premier League (138) during the 2017-18 season. He also won the most tackles in the league in the following season of 2018-19. Wilfred Ndidi was an important player of the squad that won the 2020-21 FA Cup as they defeated Chelsea by a goal to nil.
Ndidi represented Nigeria during the 2016 Summer Olympics. He made the squad for the 2018 World Cup as they were knocked out in the group stage. Ndidi also represented the Super Eagles in the 2019 and 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. He has 47 caps for the Nigerian national team.
Wilfred Ndidi currently plays for Leicester City and earns $100,000 per week.
Kelechi Iheanacho – Striker, Leicester City – $80,000
Seniorman Kelz as he is widely regarded came into the limelight after an impressive outing during the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup. The Nigerian international won the Golden Ball award as the Super Eagles won the tournament. Iheanacho scored six goals during the competition as he won the Silver Boot.
Kelechi Iheanacho joined Manchester City in 2015. Iheanacho scored 21 goals in 64 appearances for Manchester City as he won the English Football League Cup. The Nigerian international joined Leicester City for a fee of about $30 million in the summer of 2017. Iheanacho was brilliant during the 2020-21 season as he scored 12 goals in the Premier League, overperforming his expected goals of 8.20.
Iheanacho represented Nigeria during the 2018 World Cup. The Leicester City striker also represented the Super Eagles during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. Iheanacho has scored 12 goals in 42 appearances for the national team.
Kelechi Iheanacho currently plays for Leicester City and earns $80,000.
Alex Iwobi – Midfielder, Everton – $68,000
Alex Iwobi started his club career with Arsenal as he joined the youth team in 2004. The Nigerian international made his senior debut in 2015 for Arsenal against Sheffield Wednesday.
Iwobi scored 15 goals in 149 appearances for Arsenal as he spent four seasons with the senior team. The Nigerian international joined Everton from Arsenal for a fee of about $45 million in the summer of 2019. Iwobi won the FA Cup and two Community Shields with the Gunners. The Nigerian international has scored six goals in 80 appearances for Everton.
Alex made his international debut for Nigeria in 2015 although he started as a youth international for England. The Everton player has scored nine goals in 53 appearances for the Super Eagles. Iwobi scored the winning goal against Zambia to secure a spot for the Super Eagles in the 2018 World Cup. He was featured in the 2018 World Cup as Nigeria was knocked out in the group stage.
Iwobi played for the Super Eagles in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. The Nigerian international was sent off in the Round of 16 of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations as the Super Eagles suffered a 0-1 defeat to Tunisia.
Alex Iwobi currently plays for Everton and earns $68,000.
Victor Moses – Midfielder, Spartak Moscow – $56,000
Victor Moses was a popular player amongst Nigerian fans after he played a huge role in Chelsea’s Premier League triumph during the 2016-17 season. The Nigerian international started his club career in Crystal Palace before joining Wigan in 2010. Chelsea signed Moses in the summer of 2022 from Wigan. Moses went on loan to Liverpool, Stoke City and West Ham United before returning for the 2016-17 season.
The Nigerian international was converted to a right wing-back under Antonio Conte as Chelsea won the league. Moses was later loaned out to different teams such as Fenerbache, Inter Millan and Spartak Moscow. The latter club signed the player on a permanent basis in July 2021. Victor Moses scored 18 goals in 128 appearances while playing for Chelsea. He won the Premier League, FA Cup and two UEFA Europa League titles with the Blues.
Victor Moses scored 12 goals in 37 appearances for the Nigeria national team. The Spartak Moscow player was an important player in Nigeria’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. Moses featured for the Super Eagles in the 2014 World Cup and the 2018 World Cup where he scored a goal in the 1-2 defeat to Argentina.
Victor Moses currently plays for Spartak Moscow and earns $56,000.
Moses Simon – Winger, Nantes – $40,000
Moses Simon was Nigeria’s best player during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. The Nigerian international started his senior club career with AS Trencin in 2014 where he scored 17 goals in 39 appearances before joining Gent in 2015. Moses scored 21 goals in 136 appearances with Gent as he spent four seasons at the club before joining Levante. The Nigerian international won the Belgian Pro League and Belgian Super Cup while in Gent.
Moses joined Levante on loan for the 2019-20 season with an option to buy. The deal was made permanent the following season as he signed a four-year deal. Moses has scored 17 goals in 85 appearances for Nantes.
Simon made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2015 against Uganda. He has scored six goals in 45 appearances for the national team. Simon represented Nigeria during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.
Highest paid Nigerian footballer FAQ
Who is the highest-paid footballer in Nigeria?
Odion Ighalo is the highest-paid Nigerian footballer. Ighalo joined Al Shabab from Shanghai Shenhua in January 2020 where he was being paid $402,000. The Nigerian international was the first player to play for Manchester United after he took a pay cut and received $200,000 to join the club on loan.
The Nigerian international was paid $170,000 in Al Shabab, and he is thought to stay in the same salary range in his new Saudi club, Al-Hilal, which he joins after the AFCON 2021.
Who is the richest Nigerian football player overall?
John Obi Mikel is the richest Nigerian footballer with a net worth of about $57 million. The Nigerian international is one of the greatest footballers in the country’s history. Mike Obi made his fortunes while playing for Chelsea in the Premier League. He spent 11 seasons at Chelsea where he scored six goals in 372 appearances for the club. Mikel won two Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League, one UEFA Europa League, three FA Cup, one English Football League Cup and one FA Community Shield during his time at Chelsea.
Mikel Obi is currently a free agent after his contract with Kuwait SC was terminated just four months after joining the club.
Who is the most expensive footballer from Nigeria?
Victor Osimhen is the most expensive Nigerian footballer. Osimhen joined Napoli from Lille for a fee of about $80m in 2020 after scoring 18 goals in 38 appearances for the French club. The Nigerian international has scored 19 goals in 45 appearances for Napoli. Osimhen is being paid $110,000 per week in Napoli.
Sports
WWE: 15 Greatest WrestleMania Title Matches of the Last 15 Years – Catch Them on GOtv

Relive 15 Greatest WrestleMania Title Matches on GOtv
WrestleMania has always been the biggest stage of them all. It is where legends are made and dreams are realised. Over the last 15 years, WWE has given us unforgettable championship matches that have kept fans on the edge of their seats. From mind-blowing moments to emotional victories, these matches define what WrestleMania is all about.
Here are the 15 greatest WrestleMania title matches of the last 15 years, counting down to the most legendary showdown of them all.
15. Daniel Bryan vs. Batista vs. Randy Orton—WrestleMania 30
The Yes Movement, a fan-driven movement that symbolised Daniel Bryan’s fight against the odds, reached its climax as Bryan overcame Batista and Randy Orton in a triple-threat match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Bryan’s resilience and the emotional reaction from the crowd made this an all-time classic.
14. Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey—WrestleMania 35
For the first time in history, women headlined WrestleMania. The stakes were high as Becky Lynch faced Ronda Rousey and Charlotte Flair in a winner-takes-all match for both the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships. Becky Lynch walked away with both titles, cementing her place in history as “The Man.”
13. Seth Rollins vs. Brock Lesnar—WrestleMania 35
Seth Rollins shocked the world by slaying The Beast in record time. With a low blow and three curb stomps, Rollins dethroned Brock Lesnar to win the Universal Championship. It was an explosive start to the night and a moment fans will never forget.
12. Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes—WrestleMania 39
Cody Rhodes was looking to finish his story and dethrone Roman Reigns, who had held the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship for over 900 days. Despite an incredible performance from Cody, Reigns retained his title with the help of The Bloodline, proving once again that he is the Tribal Chief.
11. The Undertaker vs AJ Styles – WrestleMania 36
This was The Undertaker’s final WrestleMania match, and it was unlike any other. The Boneyard Match against AJ Styles was a unique, cinematic battle fought in a graveyard-like setting. The Undertaker, ‘The Deadman,’ rode into the night victorious, ending his career in legendary fashion.
10. John Cena vs. The Rock—WrestleMania 28
This match saw two of WWE’s biggest icons clash in a dream match. The Rock defeated John Cena in front of a record-breaking crowd in Miami, proving that he still had what it takes to shine under the bright lights.
9. Triple H vs. Daniel Bryan—WrestleMania 30
To even compete in the main event, Daniel Bryan had to defeat Triple H in the opening match. It was a hard-fought battle that saw Bryan overcome The Game, setting the stage for his historic title victory later that night.
8. Charlotte Flair vs. Asuka—WrestleMania 34
Asuka’s undefeated streak was on the line against Charlotte Flair for the SmackDown Women’s Championship. In a shocking result, Charlotte ended Asuka’s streak in a match that showcased the best of women’s wrestling.
7. Batista vs. John Cena—WrestleMania 26
Two of WWE’s top stars collided for the WWE Championship. John Cena overcame Batista in a physical battle, and he reclaimed the title and further solidified his legacy as one of the greatest superstars of all time.
6. Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins—WrestleMania 31
Just when it looked like Brock Lesnar would retain against Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins cashed in his Money in the Bank contract, turning the match into a triple threat. Rollins stole the win in one of the most shocking and thrilling moments in WrestleMania history.
5. Kofi Kingston vs. Daniel Bryan—WrestleMania 35
Against all odds, Kofi Kingston defeated Daniel Bryan to win the WWE Championship, giving fans, especially Kofimanians, one of the most emotional WrestleMania victories ever.
4. The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels—WrestleMania 26
Shawn Michaels put his career on the line against The Undertaker in a rematch from their iconic WrestleMania 25 battle. The result was another masterpiece, with The Undertaker delivering the final Tombstone to end Michaels’ career in WWE.
3. Roman Reigns vs. Edge vs. Daniel Bryan—WrestleMania 37
Roman Reigns cemented his dominance by stacking Edge and Daniel Bryan on top of each other to retain the Universal Championship. This match proved why Roman Reigns is one of the greatest champions in modern history.
2. CM Punk vs. The Undertaker—WrestleMania 29
CM Punk brought everything he had to challenge The Undertaker’s legendary streak. The match was filled with drama and near falls, but The Undertaker proved why he was the measuring stick, keeping his streak alive.
1. Edge vs. The Undertaker—WrestleMania 24
The Undertaker and Edge delivered a main event for the ages. The match had everything from near falls to incredible storytelling. The Undertaker forced Edge to tap out, winning the World Heavyweight Championship in one of the greatest WrestleMania matches of all time.
These matches are proof that WrestleMania is truly one of the most iconic events in sports entertainment.
Don’t miss Best of WWE WrestleMania Title Match on GOtv Channel 68 this Saturday at 9:30 PM. Subscribe now to enjoy RAW and other WWE action live by downloading the MyGOtv app or dial *288# to reconnect/upgrade your package.
Sports
What’s Next for Nigeria’s Betting Industry? Trends to Watch in 2025

It’s news of joy learning that Nigeria’s betting market is doing great at different levels. The intense passion for sports, particularly soccer, coupled with the desire of the majority of the young population to have fun, has made sports betting extremely popular. Online portals and smartphones made it convenient to place bets. With the future focusing on 2025, there are some vital trends that will shape the future of Nigerian betting.
The Evolution of Sport Betting in Nigeria
The big shift for sports betting in Nigeria came about when it was legalized during the early 2000s. The National Lottery Act that began in 2005 created regulations for licensed betting firms. The shift not only legalized the betting but also introduced income and innovation. With the rise in the use of the internet, sports betting websites started popping up in Nigeria. Paripesa and other betting platforms employed the use of digital technology to simplify the use of the system and place bets. The users could place the bets from the comforts of home, opening the market further and drawing more individuals. This shift was a large move away from the traditional method of betting, introducing live betting and numerous new options.
Important Trends to watch in 2025
As we look toward 2025, there are some key trends that are likely to define the future of the Nigerian betting industry.
Evolving Regulatory Framework
As the market develops, Nigerian regulators will likely strengthen existing regulations and implement new ones. Improved monitoring will protect customers, promote responsible gaming, and ensure that all comply with the law. Pay attention to license regulations and taxation laws.
Prioritizing Responsible Gambling
The Nigerian market for gambling is expanding, and there has to be greater emphasis placed upon promoting safe gambling behavior. This emphasis is necessary to ensure gamblers are safe and healthy because there are risks that lead to addiction and issues regarding finances. Paripesa and other betting platforms are likely to introduce features to regulate responsible gambling like limiting amount you can deposit, spending limits on stakes, and create educational resources to promote safe betting.
Mobile Betting Growth
Many people within the Nigerian population use smartphones to access the internet, so mobile betting will be highly popular in 2025. Operators will likely undertake to optimize their mobile sites and platforms for users.
Adoption of Cryptocurrency
As cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly popular globally, there are strong chances that Nigerian online betting websites will start to support cryptocurrencies as an option for payment. This will certainly appeal to the tech-literate population, providing gamers an option to remain anonymous along with lowering the cost of transactions.
How Significant Is the Expected Growth in Nigeria Betting Industry In 2025?
With its anticipated expansion indicating significant economic, social, and technological effects, Nigeria’s betting sector is on track for an important shift in 2025. The following are a few of the reasons influencing this projected growth:
- Increase in size of user engagement
- Educational acceptance
- Investment and sponsorship
- Profit making magnitude
- Digital economy growth
- Adopting of cryptocurrency
Conclusion
Nigeria’s betting sector appears to have a bright future in 2025, as notable developments are influencing its course. As Paripesa and other platforms adjust to these developments, they will be essential in improving user experiences, encouraging responsible gaming, and guaranteeing regulatory compliance.
Sports
Patrice Motsepe Secures Second Term As CAF President

By Adedapo Adesanya
South African billionaire, Mr Patrice Motsepe, has been re-elected unopposed as the President of Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The 63-year-old businessman, who has been CAF president since 2021, had announced his decision to stand again in October 2024.
His re-election for another four-year reign was confirmed at the CAF extraordinary general assembly in Cairo on Wednesday, where FIFA president, Mr Gianni Infantino, was in attendance.
Mr Motsepe, a mining magnate, who also owns South African club, Mamelodi Sundowns, had said he was looking to continue the “good progress” he had made since coming to office four years ago.
This re-appointment means he would serve a second four-year term as CAF boss.
Mr Motsepe was elected by acclamation in Morocco four years ago, succeeding Malagasy Ahmad Ahmad, who had been suspended by FIFA over financial misconduct.
Mr Ahmad had become the first CAF president to be banned by FIFA.
Since then, the African football body has grown financially, making a $72 million (£55.5 million) profit from last year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), 18 times bigger than that generated by the previous edition in 2022.
Speaking on the re-election, CAF secretary general, Mr Veron Mosengo-Omba, credited Mr Motsepe with improving the finances and governance of the organisation.
“Patrice was a gift for African football. In 2021 CAF was a toxic body. He brought good governance to all levels of the organisation,” Mr Mosengo-Omba said ahead of the meeting.
Also, former Cameroon football star, Mr Samuel Eto’o, was elected to the CAF executive committee by acclamation in Cairo on Wednesday as he was the lone candidate from the central Africa region.
The 44-year-old became eligible only last week after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned a CAF ban on the ex-Barcelona, Inter Milan and Chelsea forward.
Mr Eto’o, who is Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) president, now joins the supreme decision-making body in Africa.
The CAF ban of Eto’o came last year after the three-time Champions League winner was found guilty by the Cairo-based organisation of an ethics breach.
Last July, CAF said the Cameroonian had “seriously violated the principles of ethics, integrity and sportsmanship” by becoming a brand ambassador for a betting organisation.
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