Mikel Obi Biography: How Much He Earns In Naira & Euros + Net Worth (2025)

Mikel John Obi, born April 22, 1987, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, started his football journey at the Pepsi Football Academy, a training ground that helped shape many Nigerian talents. His potential was noticed early, and by the age of 17, he secured a move to Lyn Oslo in Norway.

During his time at Lyn Oslo, his performances attracted attention from top European clubs. This led to a transfer saga involving both Manchester United and Chelsea FC, with the latter eventually signing him in 2006. His move to Chelsea marked the beginning of a long and financially rewarding football career across multiple continents.

Club Career Summary

Chelsea FC (2006–2017)

Mikel spent 11 years at Chelsea, making over 200 league appearances. He played primarily as a defensive midfielder. During his time at the club, he was part of several title-winning squads, including the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Champions League, and UEFA Europa League.

Tianjin TEDA (2017–2018)

In 2017, Mikel signed with Chinese club Tianjin TEDA. The move to China came with a significant increase in salary. He played two seasons in the Chinese Super League, becoming one of the highest-paid Nigerian footballers during that period.

Middlesbrough (2019)

He returned to England briefly in 2019 to play for Middlesbrough in the Championship. He had a short stint with the club, making less than 20 appearances.

Trabzonspor (2019–2020)

Later in 2019, Mikel signed for Trabzonspor in Turkey, where he spent one season. His contract was terminated by mutual consent in 2020.

Stoke City (2020–2021)

Mikel joined Stoke City in 2020 and made over 40 appearances for the Championship side before leaving the club after one season.

Kuwait SC (2021)

He joined Kuwait SC in 2021, but his contract was cut short after only a few months.

Retirement

In September 2022, Mikel Obi officially announced his retirement from professional football after almost two decades of active play.

International Career

Mikel represented Nigeria at all levels, from U17 to the senior team. He was part of the Nigerian squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. He also captained Nigeria during the 2016 Olympic Games, where the team won a bronze medal. Overall, he earned 91 caps for the Super Eagles and scored 6 international goals before retiring from international football in 2019.

Estimated Earnings Over the Years

Chelsea Salary (2006–2017)

While at Chelsea, Mikel Obi reportedly earned a weekly salary estimated around €90,000 to €100,000. Over 11 seasons, his cumulative earnings from wages alone are estimated to be around:

• Annual Salary (Avg): €4.8 million

• 11 Years Total (Estimated): €52.8 million

Tianjin TEDA Salary (2017–2018)

In China, Mikel reportedly earned about €160,000 per week, one of the highest wages for an African player at the time.

• Annual Salary: Approx. €8.3 million

• Total (2 years): €16.6 million

Trabzonspor Salary (2019–2020)

In Turkey, his salary was lower than in China but still substantial:

• Annual Salary: Approx. €1.5 million

Other Clubs (Middlesbrough, Stoke, Kuwait SC)

While exact figures are limited, it is estimated that Mikel earned between €600,000 to €1 million per year at these clubs combined over 2–3 years.

Earnings in Naira (₦)

Using a rough average exchange rate of €1 = ₦1,400 (2025 rate):

Endorsements and Business Interests

Apart from his football salary, Mikel Obi signed endorsement deals with top brands:

• Amstel Malta

• Pepsi

• Peak Milk

• Samsung

Some of these deals were worth hundreds of millions of naira over several years. He also invested in real estate, particularly in Nigeria and London. Reports suggest he owns multiple properties and luxury vehicles.

He has also shown interest in transportation, reportedly owning a logistics company in Nigeria. His post-football ventures include business in fashion and hospitality sectors.

Estimated Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Mikel Obi’s net worth is estimated between €50 million and €60 million. This figure includes earnings from his football career, endorsements, real estate, and investments.

Converted into naira:

• Net Worth in Euros: €50M – €60M

• Naira Equivalent (₦1 = €0.00071):

  • ₦70 billion – ₦84 billion

This places him among the richest Nigerian footballers ever, with wealth built over 20 years both on and off the pitch.

Assets and Lifestyle

Mikel Obi’s wealth includes several high-value assets:

• Properties in the UK and Nigeria

• Luxury cars, including Mercedes-Benz, Bentley, and Range Rover

• Private business interests across real estate, hospitality, and transportation

He is also known to support philanthropic causes and has been involved in charity work through his personal foundation.

Quick Facts Table