Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has revealed that one of his biggest ambitions away from football is to return to school and obtain a university degree, saying education will remain important long after his playing career comes to an end.
The Nigerian international, whose rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated footballers has inspired millions, said professional football offers only a limited career span, making it essential for athletes to prepare for life after retirement.
Osimhen explained that although football has transformed his life and opened doors he once only dreamed about, he believes learning should never stop. According to the Galatasaray forward, the lessons gained through life are invaluable, but formal education remains an achievement he still hopes to accomplish.
The 2023 CAF African Footballer of the Year noted that every professional athlete eventually reaches the end of their career. While some continue as coaches or administrators, others move into business or different professions. For him, earning a university degree would be another important milestone after hanging up his boots.
Osimhen said he also wants his story to encourage young people who may have abandoned their education because of financial hardship or personal circumstances. He believes leaving school early should not prevent anyone from returning to complete their studies when the opportunity arises.
His message has resonated with many Nigerians because it reflects his own remarkable journey. Born in Lagos to parents from Edo State, Osimhen grew up in difficult circumstances and often helped support his family by doing small jobs before football changed his life. His determination and resilience eventually earned him recognition as one of the brightest talents of his generation.
The striker first captured global attention at the 2015 FIFA Under-17 World Cup, where he finished as the tournament’s top scorer and helped Nigeria lift the trophy. That success paved the way for a move to Europe, beginning with German club Wolfsburg before successful spells in Belgium with Charleroi and in France with Lille.
His career reached another level following his transfer to Napoli, where he became one of Serie A’s most feared forwards. Osimhen won the league’s Golden Boot and played a central role in ending Napoli’s long wait for a league title, achievements that established him among the world’s elite strikers.
He later joined Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he has continued his prolific goalscoring form. His impact at the Istanbul club has seen him break scoring milestones and remain a key figure for both club and country.
Despite his success on the pitch, Osimhen has consistently used his platform to advocate for education and youth development. Earlier this year, he visited a football academy in Ogun State, where he encouraged aspiring players not to neglect their studies while chasing their football dreams. During the visit, he also made a financial donation to support the academy’s development.
Football experts believe Osimhen’s comments highlight an important issue facing many young athletes. While talent can create opportunities, only a small percentage of aspiring footballers eventually enjoy long professional careers. Education provides an alternative pathway and equips players with skills that remain valuable long after retirement.
Around the world, a growing number of footballers are pursuing academic qualifications while still playing professionally. Some complete online degree programmes, while others return to university after retirement to study business, sports management, law or other disciplines.
Osimhen’s perspective reflects this broader trend of athletes planning for the future beyond competition. His emphasis on balancing sporting ambition with personal development offers an important message for young people who admire his achievements.
As one of Nigeria’s most influential sports personalities, his words carry significant weight. Many supporters see him not only as a prolific striker but also as a role model whose experiences demonstrate that perseverance, discipline and continuous learning can open doors to success.
Although his immediate focus remains helping Galatasaray and the Super Eagles achieve more success, Osimhen has made it clear that education remains part of his long-term vision. For him, football has provided extraordinary opportunities, but earning a university degree would represent another meaningful accomplishment in a life defined by determination and growth.
