Mikel Obi Reveals Nigeria Has Failed To Refund Him After He Flew The Nigerian Football Team To The Rio 2016 Olympics (Video)

Mikel Obi

Chelsea icon John Obi Mikel has disclosed that Nigerian football officials still owe him for covering flight expenses for the national team during the Rio Olympics in Brazil eight years ago.

During a conversation on his podcast, shared by the Pickers, the ex-Super Eagles star expressed frustration over the lack of recognition despite guiding the Olympic squad to a Bronze medal.

Reports indicate Nigeria’s football delegation nearly missed the 2016 Olympics due to poor government preparations, but Mikel intervened by funding their travel.

The former midfielder even sacrificed his spot in Chelsea’s squad under Antonio Conte to captain Nigeria at the Olympics.

Mikel criticized the lack of appreciation from officials responsible for logistics, blaming systemic corruption.



“Again, corruption is the issue—budgets approved by the government, but someone hoards the funds. We were stuck at the hotel, unsure how to reach Rio,” Mikel stated.

He added, “No money for flights, no solutions. Players were anxious—many facing their first major tournament. I stepped in, arranged a plane, and paid for it. Still waiting for repayment.”

“That’s the mindset—‘Mikel can afford it.’ But it’s about principle and respect. I told them, ‘Pay me back.’ They never did.”

“Still, seeing those young players earn an Olympic medal—finishing third—was priceless. Their joy mattered more than the money.”

After the Olympics, Mikel left Chelsea and transferred to China.