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It’s a fierce battle at the top of the Super Eagles social media rankings.
The battle for social media supremacy among Nigeria’s football elite has taken an interesting twist.
Three months after Victor Osimhen claimed the crown as the most followed Nigerian footballer on Instagram, former Galatasaray star Henry Onyekuru has levelled the playing field.
Both players now boast an impressive 5.6 million followers each on the popular platform.
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Victor Osimhen, who had initially pulled ahead after his much-publicised loan move from Napoli to Galatasaray, enjoyed a surge in his social media following.
Just months ago, the prolific striker was hailed as the undisputed king of Nigerian football on Meta’s platform.
However, Onyekuru’s numbers have quietly but steadily climbed, matching Osimhen's.
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The updated rankings, as of January 7, 2025, now list Osimhen and Onyekuru jointly at the top.
Former Chelsea star Mikel Obi follows in third with 3.1 million followers, while Olanrewaju Kayode takes fourth with 2.3 million.
Completing the top five is Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa with 1.6 million followers.
What’s driving the social media rivalry?
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Osimhen and Onyekuru’s social media dominance isn’t just about numbers; it reflects their growing global appeal.
Osimhen’s explosive performances for Napoli and his headline-grabbing transfer to Galatasaray have kept fans glued to his updates.
Despite having not played for Nigeria since AFCON 2021, Onyekuru, a former Galatasaray player, who now plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Fayha, continues to enjoy immense popularity in Turkey and the Middle East, a factor likely contributing to his follower surge.
This fierce competition underscores the increasing influence of Nigerian footballers on and off the pitch.
Top 10 Most-Followed Nigerian Footballers on Instagram in 2024
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1. Victor Osimhen – 5.6 million followers (+)
1. Henry Onyekuru – 5.6 million followers (+)
2. Mikel Obi – 3.1 million followers
3. Olanrewaju Kayode – 2.3 million followers
4. Ahmed Musa – 1.6 million followers
5. Alex Iwobi – 1.4 million followers
6. Samuel Chukwueze – 1.3 million followers (-)
7. Odion Ighalo – 1.2 million followers (-)
8. Victor Moses – 1.2 million followers
9. Kenneth Omeruo – 1 million followers
10. Brown Ideye – 1 million followers
N.B: The figures collated as of January 7, 2025.
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