They're living like jobless men: Nigerian icon escalates war with Nwankwo Kanu over unpaid Enyimba wages

Former Super Eagles striker and 2013 AFCON champion Brown Ideye has taken a bold stand against Enyimba’s management, accusing club chairman and Nigerian legend Nwankwo Kanu of neglecting player welfare with unpaid wages. 

Ideye, who recently rejoined Enyimba after years abroad, revealed harsh truths about the financial struggles facing players at one of Nigeria's most prestigious clubs.

According to Ideye, Enyimba players are “living like jobless men,” deprived of essential matchday bonuses and allowances despite having families relying on them. 

“THIS [sic] PLAYERS DESERVE THE BEST. BUT THEY’RE LIVING LIKE JOBLESS MEN. SOME OF THEM HAVE WIFE, KIDS AND FAMILY TO TAKE CARE OF,” he posted on X.

He painted a vivid picture of the sacrifices players make, emphasising the gruelling journey from Aba to Kano by road just to honour a game without the financial support they deserve.

“DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHAT IT TAKES TO TRAVEL FROM ABA TO KANO BY ROAD AND PLAY A GAME THE NEXT DAY? I GUESS YOU HAVE NO IDEA,” he added.

This outspoken criticism sheds new light on the ongoing wage delays that continue to affect Nigerian club football’s elite. 

Ideye’s call for urgent action reflects the wider frustration among players who juggle their passion for the game with the responsibility of caring for wives, children, and families.

His experience at Enyimba stands as a serious reminder that even top-tier Nigerian clubs struggle with financial management, forcing players to endure difficult conditions off the pitch. 

Ideye’s emotional appeal demands accountability and better treatment for footballers who give their all for the sport.

• Brown Ideye directly challenges Enyimba under the chairmanship of Nwankwo Kanu over unpaid wages and poor player support.

• Players at Enyimba are living “like jobless men,” struggling without promised bonuses and allowances.

• After returning from Kuwait’s Al Yarmouk, Ideye experienced firsthand the harsh realities of Nigerian club football.

• The physical and emotional toll on players balancing long-distance travel and family responsibilities is severe.

• Ideye’s public plea calls for immediate reforms to protect players’ livelihoods and improve financial accountability at Enyimba.

This story signals a critical moment for Nigerian football, emphasising the urgent need to prioritise player welfare and secure sustainable funding in domestic leagues.