2 weeks Ago By Anthony Nlebem
The value of Nigerian footballers continues to soar globally, with 2023 African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen retaining his crown as the country’s most valuable player. Joining him at the top of the valuation charts are 2024 CAF Player of the Year Ademola Lookman and Bundesliga sensation Victor Boniface. Here, BusinessDay Business of Sports ranks the top 10 most valuable Nigerian football stars with over €315 million as of April 2025.
The 2023 CAF Footballer of the Year remains Nigeria’s most valuable footballer. Osimhen, who powered Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years, is currently on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray. The 26-year-old striker has been prolific this season, scoring 29 goals and providing six assists in 33 appearances.
He also claimed the Serie A Player of the Season award and finished eighth in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings. Lookman’s meteoric rise continues after a historic year. The 27-year-old Atalanta winger led his club to their first-ever UEFA Europa League title, scoring a sensational hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.
Ranked 14th in the 2024 Ballon d’Or and crowned 2024 CAF Player of the Year, Lookman was also instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 AFCON semi-finals. Boniface is one of the breakout stars of the Bundesliga, finishing the 2023/24 season with 21 goals and nine assists for Bayer Leverkusen. The 23-year-old striker helped Leverkusen clinch the Bundesliga title and made history as the first player to win five consecutive Rookie of the Month awards.
Now a key figure at Fulham, Iwobi has revitalised his career after leaving Everton. The Arsenal academy graduate is valued at €25 million, showcasing consistency and versatility in midfield and attack for both club and country. Sharing fourth place with Iwobi, Bassey has grown into a defensive rock for Fulham and the Super Eagles.
From Leicester City’s youth ranks to Rangers, then Ajax, and now the Premier League, his career trajectory has been remarkable. Awoniyi, valued at €22 million, plays a pivotal role for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Despite a turbulent early career filled with loan spells, his performances at Union Berlin earned him a move to Forest, where his goals have proven crucial in their fight for top-flight survival.
Once among the most sought-after defensive midfielders in Europe, Ndidi remains an integral part of Leicester City. Though injuries have impacted his value, his market remains strong at €18 million. Tella joined Bayer Leverkusen from Southampton in 2023 and has impressed with his pace, directness, and flair.
Recently committing to Nigeria, his attacking versatility has seen his value rise to €18 million. The OGC Nice striker is known for his technical skills and physical presence. Moffi, who made his name at Lorient, has become a consistent performer in Ligue 1 and is now valued at €18 million.
Currently with AC Milan, Chukwueze’s dribbling, flair, and speed remain key weapons. Though his value has dipped slightly, he remains a vital attacking option for the Super Eagles and a player with huge potential..
