Nigerian footballers continue to make headlines on and off the pitch in 2025, not just for their performances but also for the impressive contracts they command. From Europe’s biggest clubs to emerging powerhouses, Nigerian stars are proving their worth with remarkable salaries and endorsement deals. This year’s list of the top five highest-paid players showcases how far the country’s talent has come, reflecting both consistent performances and growing market value across global football.
1. Victor Osimhen Still Tops the List
Victor Osimhen remains the highest-paid Nigerian footballer in 2025. After completing his move from Napoli to Galatasaray, he secured a contract worth about €15 million per year in base guaranteed salary, plus loyalty and image rights bonuses. His package also includes a loyalty bonus of approximately €1 million per season and about €5 million in image rights payments. His weekly earnings average around $200,000 when converted, putting him far ahead of his peers. His performances in both domestic and European competitions continue to justify the investment.
2. Victor Boniface Rising Star with Major Pay Bump
Victor Boniface claimed the second spot in Nigerian pay rankings in 2025 following a contract extension at Bayer Leverkusen. His new deal reportedly pays him about €6 million per year, putting his weekly rate in the range of $115,000. Because Osimhen still pulls in the highest weekly rate, Boniface places second despite the strong deal. His move reflects growing recognition of his potential and performance in the Bundesliga and Europe. Currently on loan at Werder Bremen.
3. Samuel Chukwueze AC Milan Pay Reflects Promise
Samuel Chukwueze’s move to AC Milan continued to raise his earnings in 2025. He earns about $5.4 million per year, placing him among Nigeria’s top five earners. Weekly, his income is approximately $104,000 based on published data. Although game time has had ups and downs, his contract shows Milan believes in his talent for the long term. His off-pitch endorsements also add to his total income. Currently on loan at Fulham.
4. Alex Iwobi Consistency Value and Stability
Alex Iwobi appears fourth on this list. With a reported $5.1 million annual salary at Fulham and additional income from endorsements, he earns around $99,000 per week from club wages alone. His experience, versatility in midfield, and steady performances in the Premier League grant him both a strong salary and market value. Additionally, his off-field ventures help boost his earnings.
5. Kelechi Iheanacho Holds Spot Among Top Five
Kelechi Iheanacho completes the top five highest-paid Nigerians. He earns roughly $5 million per year under his club contract plus supplementary income. Though not as high as Osimhen or Boniface, his wage puts him ahead of many others. Iheanacho’s goal contributions, reputation, and experience in top leagues help maintain his high pay bracket.
What These Rankings mean
These top earners show how Nigerian talent continues to get lucrative contracts abroad. Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray did not reduce his earning power because the club supported a high wage structure. Boniface’s pay and contract extension reflect that clubs value young attacking talent highly today. Even for players outside the biggest clubs, consistent performance in Europe brings steady rewards, as seen with Iwobi and Iheanacho. Endorsements and image rights increasingly appear in earnings calculations, not just base wages. Players who maintain reputation, visibility, and international performance tend to secure better deals.
Bonus Read: Top 5 Wealthiest Nigerian Musicians in 2025
