Many Nigerian footballers have enjoyed remarkable careers on the field, gaining fame, wealth, and admiration from fans. However, life after football has proven challenging for some, with many struggling to maintain financial stability due to lavish spending, unwise investments, or unexpected hardships.

Below, we explore the post-career stories of a few notable Nigerian players who faced financial difficulties and the factors that led to their struggles.

Etim Esin

Once one of Africa's wealthiest footballers, Etim Esin was known for his luxurious lifestyle, including two customized cars and a permanent suite at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos. However, after going bankrupt, one of his customized BMWs was seized by the hotel for unpaid bills.

In later years, Esin was often seen at national team camps, reportedly seeking financial assistance from other players after Super Eagles matches.



Celestine Babayaro

Celestine Babayaro, born on August 29, 1978, in Kaduna, Nigeria, was a highly regarded left-back with a career spanning 15 years.

Babayaro played for several top clubs, including Anderlecht, Chelsea FC, Newcastle United, and LA Galaxy, and represented Nigeria’s Super Eagles from 1995 to 2004. He participated in the 1996 Olympic Games, three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments (2000, 2002, 2004), and two World Cup qualifying campaigns (2002, 2006).

After retiring, Babayaro faced financial hardship, filing for bankruptcy in 2010 with debts amounting to £584,000, leading to the seizure of his assets, including his home.



Wilson Oruma

Nigerian football legend Wilson Oruma, born on December 30, 1976, in Warri, Nigeria, experienced both success and hardship. He won a gold medal at the 1996 Olympic Games, was runner-up in the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations, and played in the 2002 and 2006 World Cup qualifying campaigns.

Tragically, Oruma suffered from mental health issues after being defrauded by a scam artist posing as a pastor.



Ifeanyi Udeze

Former Super Eagles left-back Ifeanyi Udeze, who played from 2000 to 2004, encountered severe financial difficulties post-career. Known for a lifestyle of high-stakes gambling and luxurious spending, Udeze reportedly lost his fortune and was left deeply in debt.

His accomplishments include being a runner-up in the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations, securing third place in 2002, and representing Nigeria at the 2002 World Cup.



Mohammed Yusuf

Ex-Nigerian footballer Mohammed Yusuf faced financial challenges after his career. Known for his extravagant spending habits, Yusuf ended up in debt and financial distress. During his active years, he participated in the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations and played for top Nigerian clubs like Enyimba and Kano Pillars.