By Ibrahim B. Muhammad
Ahmed Musa, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers, rarely needs much introduction. Musa, the immediate past captain of the national football team, the Super Eagles, has not only excelled on the pitch but beyond to build a strong financial portfolio through strategic deals, endorsements, and entrepreneurial ventures. As the first Nigerian to score more than once in a FIFA World Cup match, Musa’s achievements have elevated him into both sporting and business success.
Football career earnings:
Musa’s professional career, which has seen him play for clubs like CSKA Moscow (Russia), Leicester City (England) and Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia) contributed significantly to his net worth. While at Leicester City, Musa earned around £60,000 per week, placing him among the highest-earning Nigerian footballers then. His contract with Al-Nassr reportedly saw him earning over $3 million annually before he returned to his former local club, Kano Pillars, a team in the Nigeria Professional League, a move that portrayed his passion for developing local football.
His football earnings remain a major source of his wealth, and with over a decade at the top of the game, he’s accumulated millions in salaries and bonuses during his time in Europe, the Middle East, and at international tournaments.
Endorsements and sponsorship deals:
Musa’s marketability has attracted sponsorship deals, including a high-profile partnership with Nike, one of the largest sports brands globally, which aligns him with other football stars around the world who benefit from their association with top athletic brands.
Beyond Nike, Musa has represented and promoted various brands in Nigeria and beyond, including Huawei, one of the world’s leading technology companies. His appeal as a national hero has made him a target for businesses seeking to engage Nigerian and African audiences as catchment areas.
Entrepreneurship and business ventures:
Musa’s business endeavours transcend beyond football and endorsements. In 2017, he invested in the Musa & Halima Group, which has since grown into a diverse enterprise with interests in real estate, retail and transportation. One of his most publicized investments is the Sports and Fitness Center he opened in Kano, aimed at helping the local communities and fostering young athletes.
Musa also owns Myca-7 Sports Centre, a multimillion-dollar facility in Kano, which further cements his commitment to both business and community development. His involvement in the real estate sector continues to grow, as he invests in residential and commercial properties across Nigeria.
Net worth:
Ahmed Musa’s net worth is estimated to be between $11 million and $23 million, making him one of the wealthiest Nigerian footballers. His fortune is primarily derived from his football salaries, endorsements, and growing business ventures. Musa’s wealth is expected to grow as he continues to explore new opportunities off the field, including philanthropy and further expansion of his businesses.
Philanthropy and legacy:
Musa is also known for his charitable works; he regularly donates to causes in Nigeria, focusing on healthcare, education, and youth empowerment. He has supported numerous charity initiatives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he provided food items and financial assistance to communities in need.
His philanthropic efforts, combined with his business awareness and football achievements, have made Ahmed Musa not only a national sports icon but a respected figure within Nigeria’s business landscape.
Conclusion:
Ahmed Musa’s journey from humble beginnings in Nigeria to becoming a multimillionaire and football icon is a testament to his hard work and smart decision-making, both on and off the field. With a growing portfolio of business ventures and endorsements, Musa is poised for continued financial success long after his football career comes to an end while his philanthropic efforts solidify his legacy as a national hero.
