By Lawrence Agbo
From thrilling performances on the football pitch to successful transitions into the business world, some Nigerian footballers have proven they are as sharp off the field as they were on it.
These footballers are great examples of how professional athletes can use their skill, fame and experience in successful businesses.
Here are 10 Nigerian footballers who crossed over to various business enterprises after their footballing careers.
Nwankwo Kanu
Kanu is an iconic figure in Nigerian football and a successful businessman. He owns the Hardley Apartments, a 4-star hotel located on Victoria Island, Lagos, and he serves as the chairman of Enyimba Football Club. Kanu is also a brand ambassador for Simba TVS, endorsing vehicles like the TVS King tricycle and Apache Power Bike. He was appointed Sportsbet’s global ambassador in 2022. In addition, Kanu shares his knowledge with sports organizations all around the world as a freelance sports consultant.
Obafemi Martins
Obafemi Martins owns thriving businesses. Cosa Nostra Patron, a well-known nightclub in Lagos, and a clothing line with his trademark acrobatic emblem in the United States are two of his endeavours. With this, Martins owns more than 20 homes in desirable areas of Lagos. He also manages the Obafemi Martins Foundation.
Jay-Jay Okocha
One of the most popular football players in Nigeria, Jay-Jay Okocha, is the owner of TGBG Global Investment Ltd., a conglomerate that includes Bureau de Change, a restaurant, a bar, and the importation of consumer products such as wine and a brand ambassador for the Nigerian logistics company Kwik Delivery and a football commentator for Supersports.
John Mikel Obi
Mikel’s business ventures are as varied as his football career was prolific. He co-owns a transport company that operates inter-state routes in Nigeria and serves as the face of BetWinner in Africa. In media, Mikel hosts The Obi One Podcast, where he shares insights into sports and business. Despite his brief tenure at VISIONPRO SPORTS EUROPE LLP in 2011, his contributions have had a significant influence on the sports consulting industry.
Emmanuel Emenike
Former Super Eagles striker, Emmanuel Emenike, has successfully solidified his footprint in Nigeria’s property market just as he did in football. He owns several real estate properties in Lagos and Owerri, EE 29 Hotels and Suites in Owerri, Imo State and sells premium Turkish armoured doors for luxury homes.
Yakubu Aiyegbeni
After retiring, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, also known as “The Yak,” has thrown himself into sports management. His business, Wilbury Sports Management, is committed to developing future coaches and athletes and has a training facility in Florida, USA. Aiyegbeni’s recent decision to sign with Enfield Town in the National League South after coming out of retirement demonstrated his unwavering love for football. He intends to continue serving as an agent and mentor while extending his impact in sports management to Cyprus.
Vincent Enyeama
A former goalkeeper for the Super Eagles, Vincent Enyeama is currently the owner of Vinpy Hotels in Akwa Ibom State’s Uyo. The hotel is a well-known place in the neighbourhood because of its calm setting and modern facilities. His passion as a player is reflected in his attention to providing high-quality service, which draws people of all kinds to the establishment.
Sunday Oliseh
Sunday Oliseh has made strides in coaching and sports management. He currently coaches the German club SV 19 Straelen and serves as CEO of SOOLIS SPORTS in Belgium, which focuses on sports development and consulting. Oliseh’s resume includes coaching the Nigerian national team and winning an Olympic gold medal, all of which he brings into his business and coaching roles today.
Victor Ikpeba
Victor Ikpeba, a former Nigerian international, has turned his expertise to sports media as a pundit for SuperSports, where he co-hosts Monday Night Football. Ikpeba is also a brand ambassador for Bet9ja, Nigeria’s leading sports betting platform. His insight and enthusiasm for the sport have made him a respected figure in football analysis, inspiring a new generation of fans and players alike.
Sam Sodje
Sam Sodje has shifted his focus to construction, with Innovation Creations Limited specializing in leasing heavy machinery in Nigeria’s growing construction sector. His experience as a former footballer and entrepreneur has allowed him to understand the value of infrastructure development, and his company provides essential resources for Nigeria’s expanding construction industry.
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