Top 20 Greatest Nigerian Footballers of All Time

Nigeria, a football-crazy nation, has consistently produced world-class players who have made their mark both locally and internationally. From memorable performances at the FIFA World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to significant contributions in European leagues, Nigerian footballers have a special place in the history of the game. This list celebrates the top 20 greatest Nigerian footballers of all time.

1. Nwankwo Kanu (Arsenal, Ajax, Portsmouth, Inter Milan, West Bromwich Albion)

Arguably the greatest Nigerian footballer of all time, Nwankwo Kanu is a global icon. Known for his technical skills, footballing intelligence, and versatility, Kanu enjoyed a successful career in Europe, playing for top clubs like Arsenal and Ajax. He won the UEFA Champions League with Ajax and several Premier League titles with Arsenal. Kanu’s international achievements are equally impressive, with 87 caps for the Super Eagles and an Olympic gold medal in 1996.

2. Rashidi Yekini (Vitória Setúbal, Olympiacos, Sporting Gijón)

Rashidi Yekini is Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer, netting 37 goals in 58 appearances for the Super Eagles. Yekini was famous for his incredible strength and finishing ability. His iconic celebration after scoring Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal in 1994 remains one of the most memorable moments in Nigerian football history. Yekini also had a successful club career in Portugal and Greece.

3. John Obi Mikel (Chelsea, Stoke City, Trabzonspor)

John Obi Mikel’s career was synonymous with success, especially during his time at Chelsea. A midfield maestro, Mikel played a key role in Chelsea’s dominance in the Premier League, winning two league titles, an FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League in 2012. Mikel earned 91 caps for Nigeria, playing in two World Cups and leading the team to AFCON glory in 2013.

4. Jay-Jay Okocha (Bolton Wanderers, Paris Saint-Germain, Eintracht Frankfurt)

Few players captured the imagination of football fans like Jay-Jay Okocha. Known for his dazzling dribbles, incredible footwork, and free-kick mastery, Okocha was one of the most entertaining players of his generation. Okocha won 75 caps for Nigeria, helping the Super Eagles win the 1994 AFCON and representing the country in three World Cups.

5. Segun Odegbami (Shooting Stars)

Segun Odegbami, nicknamed “Mathematical,” is one of Nigeria’s finest forwards. He played a pivotal role in helping Nigeria win their first-ever AFCON title in 1980, scoring two goals in the final. Odegbami was known for his intelligence on the ball, precise passing, and deadly finishing. He earned 47 caps for the national team during his illustrious career.

6. Stephen Keshi (Anderlecht, Strasbourg)

Stephen Keshi made history as both a player and a coach. As a player, he was a stalwart defender who captained the Super Eagles to their 1994 AFCON victory. Keshi also had a successful club career in Belgium and France. As a coach, Keshi led Nigeria to their third AFCON title in 2013, becoming one of only two individuals to win the tournament as both player and coach.

7. Finidi George (Ajax, Real Betis, Mallorca, Ipswich Town)

Finidi George is best known for his time at Ajax, where he won the UEFA Champions League in 1995. A dynamic winger, George’s pace, crossing ability, and goal-scoring prowess made him a key figure in Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON-winning team. He earned 45 caps for the national team and played a significant role in Nigeria’s successful campaigns in the 1990s.

8. Vincent Enyeama (Lille, Hapoel Tel Aviv)

Vincent Enyeama is widely regarded as Nigeria’s best-ever goalkeeper. With 101 international caps, Enyeama was the backbone of Nigeria’s defense for over a decade. He led Nigeria to their third AFCON title in 2013 and represented the country in three World Cups. At club level, Enyeama was a standout performer for Lille in Ligue 1, earning a reputation as one of Europe’s best goalkeepers.

9. Mudashiru Lawal (Shooting Stars, Abiola Babes)

Mudashiru Lawal remains one of Nigeria’s most iconic midfielders. Known for his work rate, vision, and leadership, Lawal earned 86 caps for Nigeria, playing in five consecutive AFCON tournaments from 1976 to 1984. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s first AFCON triumph in 1980 and is remembered as one of the most hardworking players to wear the Super Eagles jersey.

10. Ahmed Musa (Leicester City, CSKA Moscow, Al-Nassr)

Ahmed Musa’s name is etched in Nigerian football history as the country’s all-time leading scorer in the FIFA World Cup with four goals. Musa’s blistering pace and goal-scoring ability have made him a key player for Nigeria, earning 110 caps. He has also enjoyed a successful club career, particularly during his time at CSKA Moscow, where he won multiple Russian Premier League titles.

11. Christian Chukwu (Enugu Rangers)

Christian Chukwu, known as “Chairman,” captained Nigeria to their first AFCON title in 1980. A commanding central defender, Chukwu was known for his leadership and defensive prowess. After a successful playing career, Chukwu transitioned into coaching, managing the Nigerian national team and several clubs. He earned 54 caps for the Super Eagles.

12. Joseph Yobo (Everton, Fenerbahce)

Joseph Yobo was a rock at the back for Nigeria and enjoyed a stellar club career in Europe. He was Nigeria’s first player to reach 100 international caps, playing in six AFCON tournaments and three World Cups. Yobo’s club career saw him become a fan favorite at Everton, where he made over 200 appearances. He also won two Turkish league titles with Fenerbahce.

13. Obafemi Martins (Inter Milan, Newcastle United)

Obafemi Martins is a distinguished Nigerian striker celebrated for his pace, agility, and goal-scoring ability. Born on October 28, 1984, in Lagos, Nigeria, Martins started his professional career with the Nigerian club, Ebedei, before making a significant leap to Europe with Inter Milan in 2001. During his time at Inter, he showcased his talent by winning multiple Serie A titles and the UEFA Champions League, quickly becoming a fan favorite for his electrifying performances.

Martins was also a vital member of the Nigerian national team, earning 42 caps from 2004 to 2015. He represented Nigeria in several international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. His dynamic playing style and knack for finding the back of the net made him a crucial player for the Super Eagles. After successful stints in various leagues, including the Premier League with Newcastle United and later in China and the MLS, Martins continued to leave his mark on football, admired by fans for his contributions to both club and country.

14. Victor Osimhen (Napoli, Lille)

Victor Osimhen is one of Nigeria’s brightest stars and currently one of the top strikers in the world. In 2023, he led Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 26 goals. Osimhen has 22 goals in 35 appearances for the national team and is regarded as the heir apparent to Rashidi Yekini’s record as Nigeria’s all-time top scorer.

15. Alex Iwobi (Arsenal, Everton, Fulham)

Alex Iwobi is one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers in recent years. After rising through Arsenal’s ranks, Iwobi moved to Everton, where he became a key player. He currently plays for Fulham and has earned 80 caps for Nigeria, scoring 10 goals. Iwobi has represented Nigeria in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and two AFCON tournaments.

16. Emmanuel Amuneke (Barcelona, Sporting CP)

Emmanuel Amuneke is remembered for his incredible performances in the 1994 World Cup and AFCON. A fast and skillful winger, Amuneke scored twice in the 1994 AFCON final, helping Nigeria win the trophy. He later played for FC Barcelona and Sporting CP, adding to his illustrious career.

17. Taribo West (Inter Milan, AC Milan, Auxerre)

Taribo West was a tough and uncompromising defender who played for top European clubs like Inter and AC Milan. Known for his distinctive hairstyles and aggressive style of play, West earned 42 caps for Nigeria and was part of the team that won the 1996 Olympic gold medal.

18. Peter Rufai (Deportivo La Coruña, Go Ahead Eagles)

Peter Rufai was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during their successful 1994 AFCON campaign and two World Cup tournaments in 1994 and 1998. Known for his shot-stopping ability, Rufai made 65 appearances for the Super Eagles and enjoyed a successful club career in Spain and the Netherlands.

19. Sunday Oliseh (Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus)

Sunday Oliseh is a renowned former Nigerian footballer known for his exceptional skills and leadership on the field. Born on September 14, 1974, in Abavo, Nigeria, Oliseh began his professional career in Europe with Ajax in the early 1990s, where he quickly established himself as a talented midfielder. His vision and ability to control the game earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund, where he contributed to the team’s success in the Bundesliga and the UEFA Champions League.

Oliseh was a key figure for the Nigerian national team, earning 63 caps between 1994 and 2002. He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s memorable victory at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, where they won the gold medal. He also represented Nigeria at the 1998 FIFA World Cup and was known for his fierce determination and tactical awareness on the pitch. After retiring from professional football, Oliseh transitioned into coaching and sports commentary, continuing to influence the game and inspire future generations of Nigerian players.

20. Yakubu Aiyegbeni (Everton, Middlesbrough, Portsmouth)

Yakubu Aiyegbeni was one of the most prolific Nigerian strikers to ever play in the Premier League. Known simply as “Yak,” he scored 95 goals in 252 Premier League appearances. He also represented Nigeria at four AFCON tournaments and the 2010 World Cup, scoring 21 goals in 57 caps for the national team.

FAQs

Who is the greatest Nigerian footballer of all time?
Nwankwo Kanu is widely regarded as the greatest Nigerian footballer of all time, with a successful career at clubs like Arsenal and Ajax.
Who is Nigeria’s all-time top goal scorer?
Rashidi Yekini holds the record as Nigeria’s top goal scorer with 37 goals.
How many caps does John Obi Mikel have for Nigeria?
John Obi Mikel earned 91 caps for Nigeria.
Which Nigerian footballer won the UEFA Champions League?
Finidi George won the UEFA Champions League with Ajax in 1995.
Who is Nigeria’s most capped goalkeeper?
Vincent Enyeama is Nigeria’s most capped goalkeeper with 101 international appearances.
Who is Nigeria’s all-time leading World Cup goal scorer?
Ahmed Musa is Nigeria’s all-time leading World Cup goal scorer with four goals.
What club did Jay-Jay Okocha play for in the Premier League?
Jay-Jay Okocha played for Bolton Wanderers in the Premier League.

Top 20 Greatest Nigerian Footballers of All Time | Super Eagles Legends