Top 10 Highest Paid Npfl Players In 2025: Salaries, Career Highlights & Impact

The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has seen significant growth in recent years, attracting top talents and offering competitive salaries. As of 2025, the league boasts several high-earning players who have made substantial contributions to their clubs and the national team. This article delves into the top 10 highest-paid NPFL players, highlighting their monthly salaries, career achievements, and impact on Nigerian football.

1. Sikiru Alimi – ₦1.3 Million/month

• Club: Remo Stars

• Position: Forward

• Monthly Salary: ₦1.3 Million (~$849)

• Career Highlights:
  Sikiru Alimi has established himself as a prolific striker in the NPFL. His consistent performances have made him a key player for Remo Stars, and his earnings reflect his value to the team.

2. Rabiu Ali – ₦850,000/month

• Club: Kano Pillars

• Position: Midfielder

• Monthly Salary: ₦850,000 (~$554)

• Career Highlights:
  A veteran of the NPFL, Rabiu Ali has been a stalwart for Kano Pillars. His leadership and experience have been instrumental in the club's successes over the years.

3. Nyima Nwagua – ₦750,000/month

• Club: Formerly Enyimba, now Al-Wehda (Saudi Arabia)

• Position: Forward

• Monthly Salary: ₦750,000 (~$487)

• Career Highlights:
  Nyima Nwagua was a standout player for Enyimba before making a move to Al-Wehda in Saudi Arabia. His goal-scoring prowess earned him recognition both domestically and internationally.

4. Ahmed Musa – ₦700,000/month

• Club: Kano Pillars

• Position: Forward

• Monthly Salary: ₦700,000 (~$453)

• Career Highlights:
  A former Premier League and Saudi Pro League star, Ahmed Musa returned to Nigeria to play for Kano Pillars. His international experience and leadership qualities have been invaluable to the team.

5. Kelly Kester – ₦750,000/month

• Club: Bendel Insurance

• Position: Forward

• Monthly Salary: ₦750,000 (~$487)

• Career Highlights:
  Kelly Kester's performances for Bendel Insurance have been impressive, earning him a spot among the league's top earners. His contributions have been vital to the club's attacking strategies.

6. Chijioke Akuneto – ₦650,000/month

• Club: Rivers United

• Position: Forward

• Monthly Salary: ₦650,000 (~$421)

• Career Highlights:
  Chijioke Akuneto's agility and goal-scoring abilities have made him a key player for Rivers United. His performances have been crucial in the club's domestic campaigns.

7. Nduka Junior – ₦600,000/month

• Club: Plateau United

• Position: Midfielder

• Monthly Salary: ₦600,000 (~$391)

• Career Highlights:
  Nduka Junior's midfield dominance and vision have been central to Plateau United's strategies. His ability to control the tempo of the game has made him an indispensable asset.

8. Chinonso Offor – ₦580,000/month

• Club: Enyimba

• Position: Forward

• Monthly Salary: ₦580,000 (~$377)

• Career Highlights:
  Chinonso Offor's physical presence and finishing skills have made him a threat in the attacking third. His contributions have been significant in Enyimba's offensive setups.

9. Stephen Jude – ₦550,000/month

• Club: Akwa United

• Position: Midfielder

• Monthly Salary: ₦550,000 (~$358)

• Career Highlights:
  Stephen Jude's creativity and passing range have been pivotal for Akwa United. His ability to link up play and create chances has been a hallmark of his game.

10. Emeka Obioma – ₦500,000/month

• Club: Heartland FC

• Position: Forward

• Monthly Salary: ₦500,000 (~$326)

• Career Highlights:
  Emeka Obioma's sharp instincts and goal-scoring abilities have made him a key figure for Heartland FC. His contributions have been vital in securing crucial points for the team.

Salary Overview and NPFL's Financial Landscape

The NPFL has made strides in improving player salaries, with top earners like Sikiru Alimi and Rabiu Ali commanding monthly wages exceeding ₦1 million. However, the league still faces challenges in terms of financial stability and consistency in player payments.

Future Outlook

The NPFL is working towards enhancing its financial structure to attract and retain top talents. Plans are underway to review and potentially increase the minimum salary for players, aiming to improve the overall standard of the league and ensure fair compensation for players.

Conclusion

The top 10 highest-paid players in the NPFL have not only demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication on the field but have also contributed significantly to the growth and development of Nigerian football. As the league continues to evolve, these players serve as benchmarks for excellence and professionalism, inspiring the next generation of footballers in Nigeria.