Joseph Yobo is a name synonymous with Nigerian, and African football. The legendary defender is renowned for his exceptional leadership, defensive solidity, and impressive career spanning nearly two decades.
Even in retirement, few defenders in African history command the same respect as the former Everton man.
Here is a full breakdown of his outstanding career.
Who is Joseph Yobo?
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Joseph Yobo is a Nigerian former professional footballer who played centre back and occasionally right back. He captained the Nigerian national team until his retirement in June 2014, holding the record for most appearances. Upon retirement, Yobo transitioned into coaching, becoming the assistant coach of the Super Eagles in February 2020.
Joseph Yobo: Early Life & Club Career
Born on September 6, 1980, in Kono, Rivers State, Nigeria, Yobo began his professional career at Standard Liege in Belgium. His impressive performances caught the attention of French club Olympique Marseille, where he spent time on loan at Tenerife and Everton.
Yobo’s permanent transfer to Everton in 2002 marked a significant turning point in his career. He quickly established himself as a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the Toffees’ defense, known for his aerial ability and strong tackles.
Joseph Yobo established himself as a consistent player in the Everton squad. During the 2006-07 season, he was one of only seven players in the league to play every minute of every game.
2️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ #PL appearances for the Toffees 🇳🇬
Joseph Yobo joined @Everton #OnThisDay in 2002 pic.twitter.com/nqF5MFsLEA
— Premier League (@premierleague) July 9, 2020
In 2006, rumors emerged about a potential move to Arsenal due to a delay in signing a new contract with Everton. However, Yobo committed to Goodison Park until 2010, signing a new deal on July 22.
Yobo made history on April 15, 2007, by becoming the record appearance holder for an overseas player at Everton, a record he held until 2012. He also became the first African player to captain the club in a UEFA Cup match against Larissa on October 25, 2007.
Yobo scored his first goal of the 2008-09 season against West Ham United on May 6, 2009, securing a 3-1 win. However, in the 2009-10 season, he faced increased competition from Sylvain Distin, Phil Jagielka, and John Heitinga, which limited his playing time.
After a successful spell at Everton, Yobo moved to Fenerbahce in Turkey, where he won the Turkish League and Cup. He spent his final year on loan at Norwich City before retiring.
Joseph Yobo: Full Profile
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Full name: Joseph Michael Yobo (OON)
Birth date: September 6, 1980
Nationality: Nigerian
Place of birth: Kono, Rivers State
Age: 43 years old (as of March 2025)
Position: Defender
Height: 6 ft 2 in
Marital status: Married
Spouse: Adaeze Yobo
Children: Joey Yobo (son), Jayden Yobo (son), Lexine Yobo (daughter)
Parents: Williamson Yobo (father) and Comfort Yobo (mother)
Siblings: Albert Yobo, Norum Yobo, Gideon Yobo
Net worth: $5 million (est.)
Instagram: @josephyobo1
X: @jyobo234
International Career
Joseph Yobo had a distinguished international career, earning 101 caps for Nigeria. He represented the Super Eagles at three FIFA World Cups and six Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
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Yobo made his senior international debut against Zambia in a 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifier on March 24, 2001. He played in all six of Nigeria’s matches at the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations and was a key player at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, assisting Julius Aghahowa’s goal against Sweden.
Yobo assumed the captaincy after Nwankwo Kanu’s international retirement and led the team to victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, lifting the trophy after appearing as a late substitute in the final.
In 2014, Yobo was named to Nigeria’s squad for the FIFA World Cup, where he made his 100th international appearance against France in the round of 16. After scoring an own goal in the 2-0 defeat, Yobo announced his international retirement, citing pride in his career and the need to give younger players a chance.
Post Retirement & Coaching Career
On February 12, 2020, Joseph Yobo was appointed assistant coach of the Super Eagles by the Nigeria Football Federation. He replaced Imama Amapakabo in the role.
Yobo expressed his enthusiasm for the position, stating, “I’m bringing back motivation and inspiration. As a former captain, I’ve been there and done it all.” He also highlighted his experience as a pundit, saying, “I’ve seen the team from a fan’s perspective and understand how people feel when watching them.”
Yobo emphasized the value he can bring to the team, saying, “I’m bringing back my experience from over 15 years of consistency in my career. The spirit of the team will improve, and with the quality we have, I believe we can achieve great things.”
Career Achievements
Africa Cup of Nations Champion (2013)
Represented Nigeria at three FIFA World Cups (2002, 2010, 2014)
Turkish League and Cup winner with Fenerbahce
Joseph Yobo Networth
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Joseph Yobo is estimated to have a net worth of $5 million, based on sources. He was a prominent figure in Nigerian football and a respected global athlete, and he accumulated significant earnings throughout his career.
Yobo earned $2.43 million per year at Everton, while he earned $2.2 million per year during his time with Fenerbahce in Turkey. Upon retirement, the defender invested in several businesses, including real estate, where he sought to reduce the country’s housing deficit and make housing affordable.
Personal Life
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Joseph Yobo married Adaeze Igwe, a former Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN), in a private ceremony in Jos in 2010, just three months after they met.
The couple has a son, Joey Yobo, born in April 2010. Yobo’s family has faced challenges, including the kidnapping of his younger brother, Norum, in 2008. Norum was held for ransom but was released after 12 days.
Yobo has been open about his spiritual life, seeking prayers from T.B. Joshua after suffering a hamstring injury in the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations.
In 2016, Yobo and his wife, Adaeze, were conferred with chieftaincy titles by the King of Ogoni Kingdom. This honor was bestowed upon them a day after Yobo’s testimonial match, marking his retirement from professional football.
Philanthropy
In 2007, Yobo established the Joseph Yobo Charity Foundation to support underprivileged children in Nigeria.
Through his foundation, Yobo has awarded over 300 scholarships to students ranging from primary to university level. He has also founded a football academy in the Ogoni region of Nigeria and runs football camps in Lagos. These camps provide opportunities for young players to develop their skills.
