celebrity radar - gossips

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

Published

2 years 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.

@punchng

celebrity radar - gossips

Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

Published

2 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

King of the Screen: Why Odunlade, Muyiwa, Femi Adebayo Remain Yoruba Movie Giants

The Yoruba movie industry has continued to produce legendary talents whose influence stretches beyond Nigeria to global audiences. Over the years, some actors have distinguished themselves through consistency, versatility, box office success, and cultural impact.

Among the numerous stars in Nollywood’s Yoruba sector, three actors have remained dominant figures whose names constantly resonate with fans and filmmakers alike — Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo.

Odunlade Adekola: The Street King of Yoruba Cinema

Popularly regarded as one of the most entertaining actors in Nollywood, Odunlade Adekola has built a unique reputation through his energetic delivery, comic timing, emotional depth, and strong connection with grassroots audiences.

From comedy to action and emotional family dramas, the actor has consistently proven his versatility in blockbuster productions. His ability to interpret diverse roles effortlessly has made him a household name across Nigeria.

Industry observers believe his dominance on social media platforms, where his movie clips frequently go viral, has further strengthened his popularity among younger audiences.

Beyond acting, Odunlade has also contributed immensely to mentoring upcoming talents and expanding the commercial value of Yoruba films.

Muyiwa Ademola: The Master Storyteller

For many lovers of indigenous movies, Muyiwa Ademola remains one of the finest storytellers the Yoruba film industry has produced.

Widely respected for producing emotional and morally driven movies, the actor earned massive recognition through classic productions that focused on family values, culture, betrayal, perseverance, and societal lessons.

His calm delivery, deep scripts, and originality have kept him relevant despite changing trends in the entertainment industry.

Film critics often describe Muyiwa Ademola as one of the few actors whose productions combine entertainment with strong cultural education, making his movies timeless among older and younger viewers alike.

Femi Adebayo: The Modern-Day Box Office Force

Femi Adebayo has successfully combined traditional Yoruba storytelling with modern cinematic excellence, helping to project indigenous films to international audiences.

The actor, filmmaker, and producer has recorded major successes with high-budget productions that gained attention on streaming platforms and cinemas.

Known for his professionalism and attention to detail, Femi Adebayo has continued to push Yoruba movies beyond local boundaries while preserving cultural identity.

Entertainment analysts say his ability to blend culture, technology, and quality production has positioned him among the leading faces shaping the future of Yoruba cinema.

Growing Global Influence

The success of these actors reflects the increasing acceptance of indigenous Nigerian content globally. With streaming platforms creating wider access to local movies, Yoruba actors are now gaining international recognition and attracting new audiences.

Fans and stakeholders in the entertainment industry believe the contributions of Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo have not only sustained Yoruba culture through film but have also elevated Nollywood’s global reputation.

celebrity radar - gossips

Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians

Published

2 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Olowu Kuta To Yoruba Obas: Uplift Culture And Tradition Of Our Forebears

Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians

The Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr. Hammed Makama Oyelude, CON, Tegbosun III, has called on the Muslim Ummah and all Nigerians to make peace, unity, and selflessness their guiding principles as the world marks this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In his Sallah message, the revered monarch described Eid-el-Kabir as a “highly spiritual occasion that demands dedication, commitment, and selflessness.”

Oba Makama said the period should be used to reflect on societal happenings and promote messages of hope and unity without inciting provocation.

He urged Nigerians to live together harmoniously, irrespective of religious, political, or tribal affiliations, stressing that politicians should exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“What should be uppermost in the mind of every patriotic Nigerian is **‘Country first,’” he said.

The monarch also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant in the face of insecurity, reassuring that the armed forces and paramilitary agencies are working round the clock to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration.

“The price wise men pay for eternal liberty is vigilance. I urge everyone to celebrate moderately and extend a helping hand to the less privileged, widows, and orphans, embracing them as our brothers and sisters,” Olowu Makama added.

He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a peaceful and fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

celebrity radar - gossips

Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

Published

2 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

By Adeyemi Obadimu Veron

The Oloworo of Oworosoki Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II, has extended warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and the world at large on the joyous occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In a statement made available to Newsmen, the revered monarch urged Muslims to embrace the true teachings of Islam by promoting peace, love, unity, sacrifice, and compassion during and after the festive period.

Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II noted that Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Salah, remains one of the most significant celebrations in Islam as it symbolizes total obedience, faith, and devotion to Almighty Allah, drawing inspiration from the unwavering sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who demonstrated complete submission to the will of God.

According to the monarch, the Holy Qur’an teaches believers the importance of righteousness, kindness to humanity, tolerance, and support for the less privileged in society. He emphasized that the season should serve as a reminder for all Nigerians to live in harmony irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or political differences.

The royal father further called on Muslims to use the sacred period to pray fervently for peace, stability, economic growth, and sustainable development in Nigeria, stressing that national progress can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and mutual understanding.

Oba Saliu also encouraged the faithful to extend hands of generosity to widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society, noting that the essence of Eid-el-Kabir goes beyond celebration and feasting, but also reflects the spirit of sharing and caring for humanity as instructed in the Qur’an.

While wishing Muslims a peaceful and memorable Eid celebration, the Oloworo of Oworosoki prayed for divine blessings, prosperity, good health, and continued harmony in homes and communities.

“May this year’s Eid-el-Kabir strengthen our faith, deepen our love for one another, and bring renewed hope and abundant blessings to our nation,” the monarch stated.