Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has disclosed that he plans to return to school and obtain a university degree despite his success in professional football, saying he wants to set an example for young people who may have abandoned their education due to financial hardship or other challenges. The Galatasaray forward made the revelation in an interview with Instablog TV that resurfaced on Monday, 13 July 2026, reflecting on life lessons, the importance of education, and the need to prepare for life after football.
Speaking during the interview, the 2023 African Footballer of the Year acknowledged that while life has taught him invaluable lessons outside the classroom, formal education remains something he hopes to complete. He noted that a football career is relatively short, making it important for players to prepare for life after retirement. He stated that football is not something you will play for so long, probably 20 or 25 years, and then you are done, so for him, it will be an amazing thing to also try to get a degree, which he is still considering.
Osimhen explained that one of his key motivations is to encourage young people who may have dropped out of school due to financial or personal challenges. He said he wants to demonstrate that dropping out does not have to mean the end of one's academic journey. For him, it is to set a standard, to set an example to the younger generation that even though you dropped out due to some kind of challenges, you can always go back to school because the school is always there. Although Osimhen did not disclose when he intends to enrol or what course he plans to study, his remarks have attracted widespread praise from fans, with many describing his message as a powerful reminder that education remains valuable regardless of career success.
The comments have resonated deeply with Nigerians, particularly because Osimhen's own rise to football stardom was shaped by humble beginnings and personal sacrifices. Born in Edo State, he first gained international recognition after finishing as the top scorer at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he helped Nigeria win the tournament. He subsequently played for VfL Wolfsburg in Germany, Belgian side Charleroi, and French club Lille before completing a record transfer to Italian giants Napoli in 2020. During his time in Italy, he became one of the world's most sought-after forwards, winning the Serie A Golden Boot and leading Napoli to their first league title in 33 years. He later joined Turkish champions Galatasaray, where he has continued his prolific goalscoring form.
Beyond his exploits on the pitch, Osimhen has repeatedly stressed the importance of education for young footballers. In February 2026, the Super Eagles vice-captain visited Beyond Limits Football Academy in Ikenne, Ogun State, where he urged players not to neglect their education while pursuing football careers. During the visit, he donated ₦10 million to support the development of the academy and encouraged the players to prepare for life beyond football. He told the youngsters that while talent could open doors, education remained an important tool that would equip them for opportunities after retirement from the game.
Osimhen's announcement comes at a time when many Nigerian youths are grappling with the decision to prioritise education or pursue sporting careers. His message that "school is always there" serves as a reminder that academic ambitions can remain achievable regardless of where life's journey begins. The striker has consistently used his platform to encourage education alongside sport, reinforcing a broader commitment to lifelong learning and offering a powerful example that it is never too late to return to the classroom.
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