Russian clubs have long had an eye for Nigerian talent, splashing millions to sign players who could deliver on the big stage. Among them, Obafemi Martins remains one of the most high-profile names, but he is not the most expensive.
In this article, Footynaija.com takes you through six of the most expensive Nigerian transfers in Russian football history, ranked by fee.
6. Ezekiel Henty – €5.00m
In the 2015/16 season, Ezekiel Henty joined Lokomotiv Moscow from Olimpija Ljubljana for €5 million. Aged 22 at the time, the centre-forward arrived after a standout season in Slovenia and was tipped to bring strength and speed to Lokomotiv’s frontline.
5. Victor Moses – €5.00m
Victor Moses made his move to Russia permanent in 2021/22 when Spartak Moscow paid €5 million to sign him from Chelsea. Then 30, the experienced winger had already spent a season on loan and quickly became a reliable option on the flanks for the Moscow side.
4. Joseph Enakarhire – €6.00m
Dynamo Moscow signed 22-year-old Joseph Enakarhire from Sporting CP for €6 million in the 2005/06 season. The strong and composed centre-back had made waves in Portugal and brought defensive solidity to the Russian side.
3. Obafemi Martins – €9.00m
At 25, Obafemi Martins joined Rubin Kazan from Wolfsburg in 2010/11 for €9 million. The electric striker was already known for his time at Inter Milan and Newcastle United. In Russia, he added experience and attacking depth, combining pace with finishing instincts in his short but memorable spell.
2. Peter Odemwingie – €10.00m
Lokomotiv Moscow paid €10 million to sign Peter Odemwingie in the 2007/08 season. At 26, the Super Eagles forward arrived from Lille after scoring double figures in Ligue 1. His time at Lokomotiv saw him become a fan favourite before he made the jump to the Premier League.
1. Chidera Ejuke – €11.50m
The most expensive Nigerian transfer in Russian football history is Chidera Ejuke’s €11.5 million move to CSKA Moscow in the 2020/21 season. Then just 22, the former Heerenveen winger dazzled with his dribbling and direct style, making him one of the league’s most exciting players before his loan spells abroad.