celebrity radar - gossips

OSIMHEN: Top 25 Nigerian footballers overseas earn $77.66m annually

Published

7 months ago

September 4, 2024

OSIMHEN: Top 25 Nigerian footballers overseas earn $77.66m annually

Since ex-Nigeria midfielder Sylvanus Okpala blazed the trail in 1983, when he joined Uniao of Portugal from Enugu Rangers, there has been an astronomical increase in the number of Nigerian footballers venturing overseas to sign lucrative contracts with foreign clubs, making significant strides in the global football arena in terms of performance and earnings. Based on information on the various player earnings websites such as Salary Sport and Capology, here are the top 25 Nigerian players plying their trade overseas who collectively rake in a whopping $71.73m, approximately N81.86bn annually, PETER AKINBO writes

Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, $16.96m)

Victor Osimhen is currently the highest-earning Nigerian player, with an annual wage of $16.96m.

At 25, Osimhen has firmly established himself as one of the best forwards in the world, leading Napoli to their first Serie A title in over three decades during the 2022/23 season. His performances earned him accolades, including the Serie A Best Striker award and the 2023 African Player of the Year award.

As Serie A’s highest-paid player, Osimhen accounts for nearly 24% of the total earnings of the top 25 Nigerian players. This not only cements his status as Nigeria’s top earner but also places him among the highest-paid African footballers globally. He just completed a loan move to Galatasaray in Turkey.

Alex Iwobi (Fulham, $5.57m)

Alex Iwobi, who recently moved from Everton to Fulham in the Premier League, earns $5.57m) annually.

The 28-year-old midfielder has found a new lease of life since his move to Craven Cottage, becoming a key player for the London club with his versatility and creativity in the Premier League.

Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, $5.05m)

Leicester City’s midfield powerhouse, Wilfred Ndidi, earns $5.05m annually at the Premier League side

The 27-year-old has been a mainstay in Leicester’s midfield since his arrival in 2017.

Renowned for his tackling and defensive contributions, Ndidi was instrumental in Leicester’s FA Cup triumph in 2021 and their Community Shield win in 2022, and he figured prominently in their Championship triumph last season as the Foxes secured an immediate return to the Premier League.

Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, $4.84m)

Samuel Chukwueze, who joined AC Milan from Villarreal in 2023, is another high-earner with an annual salary of $4.84m.

The 25-year-old winger, known for his speed and dribbling ability, was a key player for Villarreal during his time in Spain, helping them secure the UEFA Europa League title in 2021.

His switch to Milan has further elevated his career, and he has promised to dazzle in the Serie A this campaign.

Joe Aribo (Southampton, $4.66m)

Joe Aribo, a versatile midfielder with Premier League side Southampton, takes home $4.66m) annually.

The 28-year-old joined the Saints from Rangers and quickly became a mainstay in their lineup.

Aribo, whose creativity and eye for goal have made him a crucial player for both club and country, was instrumental in Southampton regaining their Premier League status last term.

Kelechi Iheanacho (Sevilla, $4.40m)

Kelechi Iheanacho will earn $4.40m per year at Spanish La Liga side Sevilla following his summer arrival at the club as a free agent on a two-year contract.

The 28-year-old forward has built a reputation for scoring crucial goals, particularly in cup competitions.

Despite Leicester’s struggles in 2022/23, Iheanacho remained one of their most reliable goal-scorers and will be pivotal for his new employers in Spain as well.

Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest, $3.37m)

Taiwo Awoniyi is a key player for Nottingham Forest, where he earns $3.37m annually at the Premier League club.

The 27-year-old striker helped the club with key goals in their final matches of last season as they beat relegation last season following their return to the Premier League, scoring.

Calvin Bassey (Fulham, $2.98m)

Calvin Bassey, a 24-year-old defender, joined Premier League outfit Fulham from Ajax and earns $2.98m annually.

Known for his versatility, Bassey can play both as a centre-back and a left-back, which makes him a valuable asset for the London club.

Moses Simon (Nantes, $2.65m)

Moses Simon, one of Nigeria’s most consistent wingers, earns $2.65m a year at French club Nantes.

The 29-year-old has been a consistent standout performer in Ligue 1, where he is renowned for his pace and dribbling skills.

Simon was instrumental to Nantes’ Coupe de France win in 2022.

Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, $2.69m)

Ola Aina recently returned to the Premier League with Nottingham Forest, where he earns $2.69m annually.

The 27-year-old fullback is known for his versatility, and he is capable of playing on both flanks.

Aina’s experience in Serie A with Torino has helped him mature into a reliable defender for club and country.

Frank Onyeka (Brentford, $2.69m)

Onyeka, 27, has been a key figure in Brentford’s midfield since joining them in 2021. His energy and box-to-box play have been crucial to the Bees’ Premier League survival.

The Nigeria international earns $2.69m annually at Brentford Community Stadium.

Onyeka has been an integral part of Brentford’s midfield since joining from FC Midtjylland in 2021.

Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, $2.46m)

Ademola Lookman, currently playing for Atalanta in the Italian Serie A, earns $2.46m per year.

The 26-year-old winger enjoyed a stellar debut season in Italy, finishing as Atalanta’s top scorer in the 2023/24 campaign, which he topped up with a hat-trick in the Europa League final to secure Atalanta’s first-ever European trophy.

Lookman’s pace and finishing ability have made him a key figure in Gian Piero Gasperini’s side.

Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen,$2.20m)

Victor Boniface has swiftly made a name for himself at German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, where he is tied to a $2.20m annual salary.

He was part of the Invincibles squad last season as they won the league and domestic cup, which was double unbeaten in all competitions except the UEL final against Atalanta.

The 23-year-old striker joined Union Saint-Gilloise and has impressed in the Bundesliga with his physical presence and goal-scoring prowess.

Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla, $2.07m)

Chidera Ejuke, a dynamic winger who also just completed his move to Sevilla in the Spanish La Liga, earns $2.07m per year.

Known for his dribbling and creativity, the 26-year-old was a key player in the Russian Premier League for CSKA Moscow.

Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor, $1.94m)

Onuachu, a towering striker, currently plying his trade with Southampton in the Premier League, earns $1.94m annually.

The 30-year-old, who excelled on loan at Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor last season, joined the Saints in 2023 after a prolific spell in Belgium with Genk. His aerial prowess has added a new dimension to the Saints’ attack.

Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, $1.94m)

Nathan Tella, a versatile winger who recently moved to Bayer Leverkusen in the German Bundesliga, earns $1.94m per year.

Like Boniface, he was also pivotal in their double-winning campaign, contributing crucial assists and late goals.

The 25-year-old’s pace and direct running have made him a key part of Xabi Alonso’s high-flying side.

Gift Orban (Lyon,$1.94m)

Gift Orban, a rising star at French Ligue 1 outfit Lyon, takes home £,$1.94m a year.

The 22-year-old forward burst onto the scene with a remarkable goal-scoring feat in the Belgian Pro League at Gent before securing his move to the Ligue 1.

The young striker’s goal-scoring exploits have already made him a fan favourite at the French club after he scored three late goals in their domestic cup run to take them to the final, where they lost to PSG last season.

Cyriel Dessers (Rangers, $1.81m)

Cyriel Dessers is a striker with Glasgow Rangers, earning $1.81m annually.

The 29-year-old forward has played across multiple European leagues, including Italy and the Netherlands, where he was top scorer in the Eredivisie and in the Europa League for Feyenoord.

Dessers’ ability to find the back of the net has made him a key addition to Rangers.

Umar Sadiq (Real Sociedad, $1.32m)

Umar Sadiq, a 27-year-old striker, earns $ 1.32 monthly on the Spanish La Liga side Real Sociedad.

The tall and powerful forward has made a name for himself in Spain, first with Almeria and now with Real Sociedad. His ability to hold up play and score crucial goals has made him an important asset for the Basque club as they compete in both La Liga and European competitions.

Isaac Success (Udinese, $1.21m)

Isaac Success, a 28-year-old forward, takes home $ 1.21m per year at Italian Serie A club Udinese.

The versatile attacker, who can play across the front line, has found a stable home in Italy after his time in England with Watford. Success’s strength and technical ability have made him a useful player for Udinese as they navigate the highly Italian topflight.

Odion Ighalo (Al-Wehda, $1.10m)

Veteran striker Odion Ighalo continues to earn handsomely even though he is in the twilight of his career, with an annual salary of $1.10m at Al-Wehda in Saudi Arabia.

The former Manchester United forward remains one of Nigeria’s most successful exports, having enjoyed a prolific stint in Asia.

William Troost-Ekong (PAOK $1.08m)

William Troost-Ekong, a reliable central defender, was earning £$1.08m per year at PAOK before securing a move to the Saudi Pro League last week.

The 31-year-old has been a consistent presence for the Super Eagles and brings leadership and experience to his club side.

Terem Moffi (OGC Nice, $1.00m)

Terem Moffi is one of Ligue 1’s exciting strikers, with an annual wage of $1.00m at OGC Nice.

The 25-year-old forward has made a name for himself with his goal-scoring exploits in France, consistently finding the back of the net for both Lorient and Nice.

Peter Olayinka (Red Star Belgrade, $0.87m)

Peter Olayinka is an established forward who earns $0.87m) annually at Serbian his Serbian club.

The 28-year-old has enjoyed success in Eastern Europe, particularly during his time at Slavia Prague, where he was a notable protagonist of their domestic dominance.

Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, $0.87m)

Zaidu, 26, earns $0.87m annually at Portuguese giants FC Porto, where he has been a regular feature at left-back for Porto since joining in 2020.

His defensive solidity and attacking contributions have made him one of Portugal’s top full-backs, as they compete at the highest levels in Portugal and Europe.

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celebrity radar - gossips

Bullion Records CEO, Ambassador Ajadi, and Wife, Oyindamola, Celebrate Their Twins’ Birthday Heartwarmingly

Published

17 hours ago

April 2, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Bullion Records CEO, Ambassador Ajadi, and Wife, Oyindamola, Celebrate Their Twins’ Birthday Heartwarmingly

The CEO and Chairman of Bullion Records, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has expressed heartfelt birthday wishes to his beloved twin children, Taiwo and Kehinde, as they mark another year of life today, Wednesday, April 2, 2025.

Ambassador Ajadi took to his official social media handle to share his joy, extending prayers and well wishes to his twins. His message was met with a flood of warm responses from family members, friends, and well-wishers, who joined in celebrating the special occasion.

In his birthday message, Ambassador Ajadi prayed for long life, prosperity, and happiness for Taiwo and Kehinde. “Join me in celebrating my darling twins as the Lord adds another year to their age. Taiwo and Kenny Ajadi, may you always celebrate in peace, joy, and love. Wishing you long life and prosperity. Happy birthday,” he wrote.

The twins’ mother, Mrs. Oyindamola Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, also honored the occasion with a heartfelt poem dedicated to her children. In her poetic tribute, she captured the essence of their unique bond and the joy they bring to the family:

Two tiny souls, a perfect pair,
Born together, with love to share.
From the womb, a special bond,
A lifelong tie, forever beyond.

With every smile, a mirrored gleam,
A synchronized laugh, a joyful dream.
Their hearts beat fast, their spirits bright,
A twin connection, a precious sight.

Through life’s ups and downs, they’ll stand as one,
A partnership unique, forever won.
Their twinship a gift, a treasure rare,
A bond of love, beyond compare.

Expressing her deep affection for her children, Mrs. Oyindamola Ajadi shared her wishes for their future, saying, “Happy birthday to my amazing duo. Wishing the twins a day filled with laughter, love, and all their favorite things. May this special day be the start of an incredible year ahead in Jesus’ name. Congratulations, my sunshine!”

celebrity radar - gossips

Biu APC Stakeholders Pay Sallah Homage to Gen. Buratai (Betara of Biu)

Published

1 day ago

April 2, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Hon. Yakubu Kimba Leads Usman kadafur Delegation to Pay Sallah Homage and Condolences to Former Army Chief Buratai

Biu APC Stakeholders Pay Sallah Homage to Gen. Buratai (Betara of Biu)

In a show of unity and respect, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Kimba led a high-powered delegation from Biu Local Government to pay Sallah homage to Ambassador Tukur Yusuf Buratai, the former Chief of Army Staff, who was in Biu for the Eid celebrations.

Hon. Kimba, mandated by His Excellency Umar Usman Kadafur, extended heartfelt greetings on behalf of the Biu community and expressed deep appreciation for Buratai’s contributions to the region during his tenure. He described Buratai as a true elder statesman who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the development of Biu.

Additionally, Hon. Kimba conveyed his condolences to Buratai over the passing of Alhaji Aliyu Usman Kadafur, offering prayers for Allah’s mercy and eternal rest for the departed.

In response, Ambassador Buratai thanked the delegation for their visit and kind words. He reaffirmed his unwavering support for the APC administration at the local, state, and federal levels, emphasizing the importance of unity in governance.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Biu Local Government Chairman, Councillors, Alhaji Umar Auv, Alhaji Abdu Zira, the APC LG Secretary, party stakeholders, elders, ward chairmen, and other notable figures.

The visit concluded on a note of mutual respect and strengthened ties, underscoring the enduring bonds between Biu’s leadership and its distinguished sons.

celebrity radar - gossips

A Life of Purpose: My 50-year Journey of Impact, Gratitude and Philanthropy – By Aare Adetola Olaniyi Emmanuelking

Published

1 day ago

April 2, 2025

Sahara Weekly

A Life of Purpose: My 50-year Journey of Impact, Gratitude and Philanthropy – By Aare Adetola Olaniyi Emmanuelking

The 2nd of April holds a profound significance for me. This year marks a momentous milestone – my 50th birthday—a celebration of half a century filled with rich experiences and impactful contributions. In stark contrast to the jubilant celebrations of my 40th birthday, which saw the streets of Lagos alive with revelry, I have chosen a path of humility and gratitude to observe this occasion. I plan to reflect quietly on my journey and offer heartfelt thanks to my creator for the many blessings I have received.

My life story is truly remarkable. The inspiration for my thriving real estate business was born during a particularly challenging period—while I was recuperating in a hospital. It was then that I envisioned a venture that would transform the housing landscape in Nigeria and beyond. Today, that vision has flourished into a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate, and I have dedicated myself to providing affordable housing solutions. My work has significantly impacted the lives of countless individuals, turning the once homeless into proud homeowners. My innovative approaches have not only disrupted traditional real estate practices but have also inspired many others in the industry to explore similar pathways.

I remain profoundly grateful to my creator for enabling me to turn my lofty dreams into reality. I have focused my efforts on addressing the pressing issue of housing in Nigeria, crafting affordable home plans that have set a standard many in the industry have sought to emulate. As a trailblazer in the real estate sector, I have become known as the benchmark for real estate business success in Nigeria. Yet, I eschew lavish displays of wealth and grandeur. Rather than inviting praise from my admirers through elaborate festivities, I am instructing friends and associates to express gratitude on my behalf and to redirect their gifts toward charitable endeavors. This philosophy represents what I view as one of the greatest gifts I could receive for my birthday—bringing joy to those in need.

An embodiment of generosity and selflessness, I have intentionally opted against the extravagant celebrations common among billionaires. Instead, I encourage my community to focus their resources on philanthropy during this special time. For me, the opportunity to support and uplift the less fortunate embodies the true spirit of celebration.

In honour of my 50th birthday, I have planned a personal prayer service dedicated to me and my family, which will serve as a moment for reaffirming my commitment to a life devoted to serving God. My gratitude is especially poignant, given the challenges I have overcome. Adversity has met resilience on my journey, and I continuously witness the favour and protection of my creator, which empowers me to thrive despite life’s many obstacles.

Moving beyond personal reflection, I am also initiating plans for widespread communal betterment across Nigeria. I aim to donate substantial infrastructure improvements to underserved communities, making tangible contributions to enhance residents’ lives in significant ways. My commitment is symbolized by my pledge to commission 50 impactful projects nationwide, each representing a part of my dedication to fostering positive change and supporting community development.

While I have plans for a well-deserved retreat with my family beyond Nigeria’s borders, I remain grounded in my values and commitment to my community. As my 50th birthday unfolds, many are gathering to honour me in various ways, a testament to the profound influence I have had on their lives and the societal landscape.

In line with the wisdom of renowned playwright Professor Femi Osofisan, who insightfully noted that birthdays are not merely for the deceased, I truly appreciate the significance of this milestone, especially within a society where the average life expectancy is less than 50 years. I stand as a beacon of humility, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.

Ultimately, as part of my ongoing legacy, I have made it clear that my 50th birthday celebration will revolve around positive societal contributions. Instead of indulging in extravagant expenditures for personal enjoyment, I prioritize investments that will uplift communities across Nigeria. I am determined to ensure that my milestone is marked by meaningful contributions rather than mere indulgence, reaffirming my role as both a property magnate and a dedicated servant to my country and its people.

In conclusion, I want to thank you all for your love, wishes, and prayers. May heaven celebrate you all, too. Amen. Happy 50th birthday to me.