Former Nigeria striker Obafemi Martins enjoyed an illustrious football career in Italy where he played for Reggiana and Inter Milan.
Martins started his career in Nigeria before his European adventure started in Italy in 2000 and he went on to play in England, Germany, Russia, Spain, United States of America and China.
The Nigerian was at a time ranked as the fifth-highest paid player in Major League Soccer during his stint at Seattle Sounders and he consolidated his earnings when he left USA for big-spending Chinese Super League clubs (Shanghai Shenhua and Wuhan Zall).
The 39-year-old who is dubbed ‘Obagoal’ because of his goalscoring prowess retired from playing football in 2020 and he is no stranger when it comes to lifestyle and nightlife in Lagos, the commercial capital of Nigeria.
Martins and his spouse, Nadine co-own the Obafemi Martins Foundation which has been a pillar of support for African youths in areas of education and sports development.
In December 2023, the couple embarked on a business adventure to launch an Italian nightclub in the fascinating sights and attractions of the Victoria Island, named Cosa Nostra Patron.
Martins & his Cosa Nostra Patron nightclub
The Obafemi Martins family defined Cosa Nostra Patron club as a replication of Italian lifestyle in Lagos, Nigeria – two countries Martins spent a chunk of his playing career.
It was opened on December 31, 2023, and it is gradually becoming a go-to spot for various Nigerian celebrities, most especially artists who have shown up in the upscale edifice.
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They include Davido, Ice Prince, CDQ, Oritsefemi, Crayon, DJ Obi, DJ Consequence, DJ Tunez amongst others.
Obafemi Martins’ businesses
Martins has shown to be a leading example for active footballers with his investment acumen as he boasts of businesses in diversified industries.
The 39-year-old is a renowned property developer in the affluent area of Lagos, with building structures in Lekki, Victoria Island, Ajah and Ikeja.
In 2015, the former Inter Milan striker delved into the fashion world by launching a clothing brand ‘Obagear’ that has his unique goal celebration picture as its logo.
The former Inter Milan striker reportedly invested in the establishment of BayRock Lifestyle club a few years and he owns an estate in the Italian city of Como.
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Martins to return to football?
Martins, rated sixth highest-scoring player for the Super Eagles with 18 goals in 42 matches, has his eyes on his son, Kevin Maussi Martins who is following in his footsteps.
Kevin Martins, aged 19, is currently playing for AC Monza in the Italian league after developing through Inter Milan youth ranks and he features for Italy’s national youth team.
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He is eligible to play for either Nigeria, Togo or Italy but his father would be hoping he dons the Super Eagles shirt at a later stage in his career.
