Ideye's fiery outburst: Enyimba earned over N2.3 billion in two years - So why are players living like jobless men?

Nigeria’s football giants Enyimba have come into the spotlight, not for their success on the pitch, but for the storm brewing off it. 

Despite earning over $1.4 million (about ₦2.3 billion) in just two seasons from continental competitions, the club’s players are reportedly left struggling without their promised wages and allowances.

• Enyimba made over $1.4 million in prize money from continental competitions between 2023 and 2025. 

• They got $1 million just for participating in the African Football League in 2023 alone, then another $450,000 from the CAF Confederation Cup last season.

• $1,000,000 (₦783 million) – Participation in the now-defunct African Football League (2023)

• $50,000 (₦81.7 million) – Qualification for CAF Confederation Cup (2024/25)

• $400,000 (₦635.8 million) – Finishing third in CAFCC group stage (2024/25)

Total earnings over two years: $1,450,000 (₦2.3 billion) as shared on X. But despite these earnings, why are players living in hardship?

This situation has raised questions about financial mismanagement and transparency within the club led by AFCON 2013 winner Brown Ideye.

As reported by Pulse Sports Nigeria, Ideye has called out the People’s Elephant, under the leadership of Nigerian legend Nwankwo Kanu, to be upfront about the club’s finances and player welfare. 

“THIS [sic] PLAYERS DESERVE THE BEST. BUT THEY’RE LIVING LIKE JOBLESS MEN,” Ideye posted in parts. 

This financial disparity has intensified demands for transparency and reforms to prioritise player welfare and ensure responsible management of club funds. And the 36-year-old’s words clearly show frustration, which was also echoed by some of the fans.

While Enyimba’s success on the continent has brought in millions, the plight of the players exposes serious issues in financial oversight. 

The club’s leadership must address these concerns to foster fairness and sustainability at the Aba giants.