Director General of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has described Victor Osimhen as the second most valuable football brand in Nigeria, ranking just behind the Super Eagles, Footynaija.com reports.
Olopade’s comments came amid ongoing public discussions following Nigeria’s campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Eagles finished third after losing narrowly to host nation Morocco in the semi-final before defeating Egypt on penalties.
During the tournament, the squad saw a brief on-pitch clash between Osimhen and Lookman, which former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh later criticised as affecting team chemistry.
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Speaking in Abuja, the DG highlighted the striker’s influence both on and off the pitch, noting his commercial appeal and growing profile as a global footballer.
“Osimhen is the second biggest brand in Nigeria after the Super Eagles. If we are branding Nigeria: Super Eagles are number one, Osimhen is number two, and the Super Falcons are number three,” Olopade said, as revealed in a report by Pulse Sports.
On Oliseh’s criticism of the match incident, the NSC chief addressed the former Super Eagles captain saying, “I disagree with Oliseh on many of his comments, including his indictment of Osimhen. Our legends deserve respect, but they must act as mentors, not denigrate the younger generation.”
Olopade argued that players like Osimhen represent more than just talent on the pitch; they carry the image of Nigerian football globally. He noted that protecting their reputation and encouraging guidance from senior figures are important for the growth of the sport in the country.
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