Invest wisely, life after football is tough — Opabunmi urges young footballers

Former Super Eagles forward, Femi Opabunmi, has urged young Nigerian footballers to make smart financial decisions during their playing careers, warning that life after football can be very challenging without proper planning.

Opabunmi, who holds the record as the youngest Nigerian player to feature at a FIFA World Cup, said his early retirement due to an eye problem left him with a painful lesson about the unpredictability of football careers.

Speaking in an interview with PUNCH, the former Golden Eaglets star explained that many footballers assume they will play for two decades, but injuries or unforeseen setbacks can end their careers abruptly. He added that only wise investments can guarantee stability after the boots are hung.

“My advice for young footballers is that they should invest when they are active, to avoid regret in the future,” he said. “They should invest wisely, because life after football is very, very difficult.”

Opabunmi’s career peaked after the 2001 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he attracted interest from Manchester United, Lyon and Saint-Étienne. He eventually signed for Grasshopper Zurich in Switzerland, but his progress was halted by a serious eye condition that forced him into early retirement.

Reflecting on the experience, he admitted the transition away from the game was not easy, despite having earned significant money during his short career. He said the sudden end to his playing days left him facing challenges that long-serving professionals often avoid.

“It’s different from someone who played for 20 years and retired,” he explained.

“Mine was very short. I had an eye challenge that made me quit when I was still active. Life has not been easy, but I thank God I am alive and still hopeful.”

Opabunmi also spoke on the welfare of retired internationals, insisting that while government and football authorities may assist out of goodwill, players have a responsibility to secure their own futures. He noted that during his time with the national team, bonuses and entitlements were paid in full and on time.

“For me, the government doesn’t owe ex-internationals anything,” he said. “When we were active, we got our bonuses. If they want to support us after retirement, that’s goodwill, not an obligation.”

On the state of Nigerian football, the former striker praised improvements in the domestic league, noting that teams can now travel for away games without fear of violence, unlike in the past. He also identified grassroots football as a critical area that needs more attention.

“The way we used to pick players for the U-17 team from secondary school games is no longer there,” he said. “When the foundation is weak, the building cannot stand. We must go back to grassroots football to get it right.”

Opabunmi commended Napoli striker Victor Osimhen and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman for their passion and commitment to the Super Eagles. He urged other players to emulate their discipline and dedication whenever they represent the country.

“Osimhen always gives his all. He plays for Nigeria the same way he plays for his club, with total passion. Lookman too is giving his best. That is what we need from the others,” he said.

Now working as the Sporting Director of Fortune Football Academy in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, Opabunmi is focused on grooming young talents.

He explained that the academy, run in partnership with former Super Eagles forward Osaze Odemwingie, aims to take children off the streets and prepare them for both football and life after the game.

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