In 2024, Nigerian footballers are doing really well, both on the field and with their earnings. They have signed big contracts and endorsement deals.

They also have the biggest contracts in Europe’s top leagues and earn a lot from endorsements.

Here’s a look at the top five highest-paid Nigerian football players in 2024:

1. Victor Osimhen $17 million

Victor Osimhen, a 25-year-old forward playing for Napoli, has signed a major contract making him the highest-paid player on his team and the second-highest in Italy’s Serie A. This contract also sets him as the highest-paid African footballer in Serie A history. His rise in earnings follows his exceptional performance in the 2022-23 season, leading to numerous awards, including the 2023 CAF Player of the Year. By the end of his contract in 2026, he is expected to earn over $40 million, making it one of the biggest contracts for a Nigerian footballer.

Per Week: $315,333

Per Month: $1,261,332

Per Year: $16,397,301

2. Alex Iwobi $7.1 million 

Alexander Iwobi, a 28-year-old Nigerian soccer player, is currently with Fulham F.C. and is one of the highest-paid players in the Premier League as of 2023. He started his career at Arsenal, making significant contributions, including helping them win the FA Cup. In 2019, he transferred to Everton and then moved to Fulham in 2023. Iwobi is also an important player for Nigeria’s national team and is related to famous Nigerian player Jay-Jay Okocha. Off the field, he earns the most from endorsements among Nigerian footballers as of May 2024.

Per Week: $99,107

Per Month: $396,428

Per Year: $5,153,5893

 3. Samuel Chukwueze $6.4 million

As of 2024, Chukwueze is among the top-paid Nigerian footballers worldwide, earning more than $105,000 each week.

His recent move to Italy is a big boost for his career, showing off his skills and improving his financial status, marking a new stage in his growth from local talent to international star.

Off the field, the player from Umuahia doesn’t have any sponsorship deals yet as he works on increasing his appeal. Right now, his value in the market is estimated at €20 million according to Transfermrkt.

Per Week: $105,179 

Per Month: $420,716

Per Year: $5,469,321

4. Kelechi Iheanacho $6.2 million

Another high earner, Iheanacho makes around $6.2 million annually from his role at Leicester City. His contributions on the field are well recognised, making him one of the key Nigerian players in international football.

Per Week: $99,107

Per Month: $396,428 

Per Year: $5,153,589 

5. Wilfred Ndidi $5.8million

Wilfred Ndidi is fifth on the list, earning about $6 million a year. He plays as a defensive midfielder for Leicester City, where his defensive skills and ability to control the game make him very important for both his club and the Nigerian national team.

Per Week: $92,913 

Per Month: $371,652