Beyond Podcast Fame: Mikel Obi’s Journey From Childhood

With his remarkable achievements in Nigerian and African football, Mikel Obi stands as one of the most celebrated and influential retired footballers on the continent. During his active career, many didn’t fully understand the depth of his talent and personality, but since retiring, the former Chelsea legend has carved out a new path for himself, showcasing his true character through his successful football talk show, The Obi One Podcast. For those who have recently discovered Mikel through this platform, it’s important to recognize that the former Blues defensive midfielder has an incredible story beyond his podcast fame—one filled with triumphs, challenges, and personal growth.

This biography delves into the lesser-known chapters of Mikel Obi’s life, starting with his early career beginnings, his personal life, including his relationship with the wealthy Russian billionaire’s daughter Olga Diyachenko, and his deep connection with the Nigerian football community. We’ll also explore his controversial transfer to Chelsea, his enduring impact on the game, and the heart-wrenching experience of his father’s kidnapping. Mikel’s father, who managed an interstate transport company in Jos, was abducted in an incident that shook the footballer’s life.

Without further delay, let’s dive into the fascinating journey of Mikel Obi, from his football roots to the heights of international stardom and beyond.

Mikel Obi Childhood Story – Early Life and Family Background:

For his Biography starters, John Michael Nchekwube Obinna, known as John Obi Mikel, John Mikel Obi or Mikel John Obi, was born on the 22nd of April 1987. Mikel was born in Jos to Pa Michael Obi, a retired civil servant and mother, Mrs Irosu Obi, a businesswoman.

Mikey, as popularly known during his childhood days, was a kid destined for greatness long before he hit stardom.

As a son of a junior civil servant, he settled for a small life for the most part of his youth. He had the talent, attitude, and endurance. This was what pushed him into greatness.

Mikel Obi Biography – How he began football:

Mikel’s journey began on the dusty football pitch of Jos Metropolis Township Primary School, where his talent first caught attention. Alhaji Babawo Mohammed Adamu, a wealthy man and football agent who lived nearby, was the one who first spotted Mikel’s potential.

In an exclusive interview, Alhaji Babawo Mohammed Adamu shared his recollections of that moment.

“I can say without any contradiction that I was the person that discovered him (John Mikel Obi) when he was just a kid.  

I supported him in so many ways to become what he is today. He was playing in the street close to my area where I picked and helped him.

I remember the first day I saw him; I called him and told him what I’d seen in him. I decided to assist him as his family was not buoyant to sponsor him, he revealed.

Much credit has never been given for the pivotal role Adamu played in the fledgling career of Obi. Although he is never perturbed, as he always says he has a telepathic understanding of things.

According to Alhaji Babawo Mohammed Adamu,

“Mikel normally calls to seek advice, and I advise him on what I know will be good for him both in his career and other issues.

Sure, he has also discussed his predicament at Chelsea and was not surprised by his move to China.

Of course, many people have different opinions but Mikel is a very good guy; he is a reserved person, shy sometimes and very friendly.

And he is the only player that I know who respects his old friends and is still with them to date. He is someone who likes helping the less-privileged and also his friends, most especially his old friends”.

Who is Olga Diyachenko? Mikel Obi’s Wife:

Mikel and Russian beauty Olga Diyachenko have been dating since 2013 after they meet him in London.

Upon their meeting, Mikel was quick to fall in love with Olga Diyachenko Alegra, whose dad is a Russian billionaire with chains of businesses in London. He boasts his Russian queen is good at making Nigerian meals.

His relationship with her started shortly after he ended his long-term relationship with the popular ex-Nigerian Delta Soap Beauty Queen, Sandra Okagbue.

The Nigerian model, actress and entrepreneur hails from Anambra state (the home of Calvin Bassey‘s Dad, Ikenna). Sandra is the elder of six children and the daughter of the late Obi (King) of Onitsha, Nigeria, Ofala Okechukwu Okagbue.

More on Sandra Okagbue:

She was once the Miss Delta Soap beauty pageant for 2010, organized by Orange Drug.

“The two love birds who have been dating for almost three years once decided to seal their relationship.

Their romance grew stronger by the day Sandra had to relocate to the Chelsea midfielder in his UK home.

To date, no one knows what went wrong between the two love birds. Neither does anyone know who broke their hearts and why Mikel decided to settle for a rich white lady.

Immediately after their breakup, Sandra was quick to publish a long piece denying her relationship with the football star.

Sandra Okagbue released a public statement addressing rumours about an upcoming wedding between her and Mikel Obi. She clarified:

“I want to clarify to the public that the recent rumours about a supposed wedding between Mikel Obi and me are completely untrue. There has never been any proposal, agreement, or wedding date as suggested. The reports claiming that Mikel Obi and I are getting married are simply not accurate.

Unfortunately, there have been far too many false stories about me floating around in the media and on various blogs. I’ve been incorrectly associated with several individuals, and some reports even claimed that my family home was bought by these fictional suitors.”

It’s really upsetting. I come from a respected royal family, and we are people who believe in hard work. Everything we’ve achieved has been through our faith in God and our commitment to hard work.

I kindly ask the press to verify any information before publishing stories about me. Thank you for your continued support.”

Mikel Obi Biography – Settling with Olga:

Obi Mikel, after his breakup, got fed up with dating Nigerian girls in open relationships.

He had to settle with someone whom he felt would give him peace of mind and lesser worries, mostly as regards financial demands from his home country.

This was when the billionaire daughter, Olga, came into his life.

According to Mikel.” My soul smile through my heart, and my heart smiles through my heart. I have finally scattered rich smiles in my sad heart”.

The thoughts of his admirers:

Many Nigerians, especially ladies who long to have him in as their man, felt disappointed upon losing Mikel to a white lady. However, some stills understand why he made such a decision.

As many average Nigerians would put it, – it is understood that when people get rich, all they want is to accumulate wealth rather than the distribution of wealth.

They tend to go for a richer spouse to reduce the tendency for them to distribute their wealth to poor family in-laws. This is the case with Mikel, as many would say.

Mikel and Olga have grown together as a couple ever since they met in London. They’ve taught themselves how to learn from each other and how to never give up on themselves.

Both parties decided to have a child in a bid to create an everlasting bond. Beyond their expectations came twin daughters.

After bringing mum back from the hospital and being asked by friends about how he feels about having twin daughters, Mikel who lay down, resting his palm on them, said the following;

“Having twin daughters makes you see things in different ways. It’s like falling in love again”.

Mia and Ava have grown up to be the jewel in their parent’s eyes.

Seeing them growing up is breathless. In fact, Words are not enough to express the unconditional love Mikel has for his family.

The Story of Mikel Obi’s Father Kidnapping:

Two Nigerian soldiers who demanded £2.4 have once abducted Mikel’s dad, Pa Obi. They demanded billions of naira ransom to safely release him.

The soldiers were part of a task force deployed to maintain order in Jos, a city frequently affected by ethnic and religious violence. However, rather than upholding peace, they used a military vehicle to stop Pa Michael Obi on his way home from work and abducted him.

How the Mikel Obi’s Dad kidnapping started:

This was how the incident happened, according to the Police chief, Mr Ayeni said.;- The soldiers told Mr Obi their commander wanted to see him. Without fear, he went to meet the military commander in the van.

They quickly drove him away to a thick bush where he was severely beaten. Beating him up was to put fear in him, which they thought would make negotiations go well.

The kidnappers told Mr Obi “to give them $4bn (£2.4bn), which they described as ‘chicken change’ to Mikel, his Chelsea club and most importantly, its owner Roman Abrahimovic.

I believe Chelsea FC was very rich during that period, Ayeni said… My men raided the Kano hideout where the kidnappers held Mikel’s father, freeing him and arresting six suspected kidnappers, which included one female soldier.  

Mikel said the kidnapping shocked him because his family had never had any problems there before. Pa Obi told reporters:

In his words,

“There were five of them, and they were dressed in military uniforms. When I approached to show my vehicle papers, they immediately pushed me. They forced me into their vehicle, which was painted in military colors, and then started driving very fast.

I never knew a vehicle could move that quickly. It was at that moment I realized I was being kidnapped. Once I understood what was happening, I began begging them for mercy. But they continued to slap and beat me mercilessly. They kept me in a terrible place, and I still don’t know how I managed to endure it.”

The Brave Footballer:

During the time of his father’s disappearance, Mikel was strong enough. To continue playing for Chelsea – starting matches against both Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion.

Upon learning that his dad had been released, he quickly took to social media to express his gratitude. He thanked everyone in Nigeria, including his family and friends, as well as Chelsea FC, their fans, and his agents for their unwavering support during that difficult time.

Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas praised the “amazing mental toughness” demonstrated by the midfielder following his father’s kidnapping.

In a statement, Chelsea FC expressed their unwavering support, saying,

“Mikel Obi has demonstrated remarkable commitment and professionalism during this incredibly difficult period, and the club will continue to provide full support to him and his family.”

Mikel Obi and Nigerian Ladies:

The Nigerian Football Legend is alleged to be romantically linked with a few celebs and unknown beautiful ladies from Nigeria.

Mikel Obi and Genevieve Nnaji started their working relationship after both were signed as ambassadors for Amstel Malta. To address dating rumors, Mikel spoke about the actress during an event organized for the Nigerian Breweries brand in Lagos.

He clarified, “We work together; it’s a professional relationship. We both endorsed Amstel Malta together. She’s a very nice person. I’ve spoken to her a few times, and she’s lovely.”

According to many who saw their pics, they seem to be more than just normal friends.

He once flew alone to Abuja immediately after a certain Sunday game at Calabar to see her. Both have been sighted two times afterwards.

The two once posed for a photograph, which caused some tongues to wag that the two stars look cute together and that they could be a very good match, judging by the piece of photograph.

For most Nigerians, it is impossible for the two to just accidentally run into each other, being that many Nigerian Nollywood celebrities have been in London without running into anyone, let alone Mikel, who always have tight schedules.

Mikel Obi Biography – Instagram attack directed at his Wife by Jealous Nigerian Girls:

Jealous Nigerian Girls are used to insult Mikel’s girlfriend (Olga) on Instagram. Mikel is a big toast of many Nigerian ladies, and they really don’t like the fact that he went for a white lady.

Again as his wife posted him eating spaghetti with one of his twin daughters, Nigerian girls took to Instagram for another attack. see below;

Allegation of Secretly Fathering Two Children:

It was reported that Mikel Obi had been a secret father to two children after short relationship with two women.

Reports say he has a much older son and younger daughter, which he hides from public glare. Moreso, he once bought a £500,000 detached property in London for his son and the boy’s mother.

Also, his other secret child, a daughter and her 23-year-old mother are said to live in the South of England. However, the two women reportedly do not know about each other.

The Sun on Sunday once quoted Mikel meeting his son’s mother after they both attended a party in London.

More story:

After she gave birth, a source revealed that Mikel agreed to provide her with tens of thousands of dollars each year for support and committed to giving her a new car every three to five years. He expressed a desire to play an active role in their lives, and he and the mother maintain a friendly relationship, as she holds no resentment towards him, likely due to the way he has taken care of her.

A close friend of his baby mama mentioned, “She doesn’t come from a wealthy family and doesn’t earn much now, but she drives a new car. It seems she has come into money since having the baby boy. We in the neighbourhood know she has been keeping a low profile.”

However, a representative for Mikel stated, “This is a completely private matter. John takes care of and supports his children and will continue to do so. He requests that their privacy be respected.”

Disrespecting Nigerian Journalists: On him been “arrogant, disrespectful and snobbish.

Issue with 2Face:

Mikel has once been accused of snubbing popular Nigerian Music Legend 2face by refusing a handshake in a club in London. According to a Nigerian newspaper source.

“2face met Mikel at a London nightclub, and proceeded to show the footballer some love, but Mikel spurns him. This got him angered. 2face felt so hurt, went into the studio and puts his grievance on wax.”

The Music icon went on to release a song titled “only me”, which had in his lyrics in Nigerian PIDGIN language saying (no be everybody sabi play ball). 

It has an ENGLISH MEANING (Not everybody knows how to play football).

Several years down the line, 2Face, in a recent interview with Brila FM, quashed the rumours of such an incident ever taking place and insisted that the song was never a diss track nor about Mikel.

2Baba also revealed that when he heard about the rumours at that time, he put a call through to the midfield maestro, and they ended up having a laugh over the rumours.

He mentioned,

“When I wrote the song, Mikel was facing criticism for not being available for certain Super Eagles matches. Some rumor mill picked up a line from my song that related to patriotism in representing the national team and spun it into a story about a rift between us. I ended up talking to Mikel on the phone, and we had a good laugh about it.”

Mikel Obi Drunk Driving Issue:

At one point, Mikel was not scheduled to play in a match due to a suspension. However, he chose to go out for dinner after watching his team play at Stamford Bridge, where he reportedly consumed four to five glasses of wine.

He was found to be almost twice the limit when stopped by police. The police stopped him in his black Range Rover. While driving on Fulham Road, west London.

The Michael/Mikel Mistake:

While preparing for the 2003 FIFA Under-17 World Championships, the Nigerian Football Association accidentally registered his name as “Michael” instead of “Mikel” for the tournament in Finland. Mikel chose to keep the name, feeling it had a special ring to it.

On July 31, 2006, he expressed that he preferred to be called Mikel John Obi rather than the more commonly used John Obi Mikel. This change was also reflected in his passport due to the mix-up.

Mikel Obi Biography – Early Career Life:

Mikel embarked on his official football career at the age of 12 when he was selected from over 3,000 young talents to join the prestigious Pepsi Football Academy. This academy was well-known for scouting the best talent across Nigeria and helping young players transition to professional football.

Even at that young age, Mikel stood out to scouts and was chosen to play for Plateau United, a top-flight team known for developing future stars like Celestine Babayaro, Victor Obinna, and Chris Obodo. Many of these players went on to play in European leagues and represent their countries.

Later, known as John Obi Mikel, he made headlines while representing Nigeria at the FIFA Under-17 World Championships held in Finland. Following this, he had trials with Ajax Cape Town in South Africa and Lyn Oslo in Norway before ultimately joining Chelsea FC. The rest of his journey is well-documented in football history.

Mikel Obi Biography – Rise to Fame:

In the summer of 2005, Obi played for Nigeria in the FIFA World Youth Championships held in the Netherlands. He had a standout tournament, helping Nigeria advance to the final, where they ultimately lost 2–1 to Argentina. Mikel’s impressive performance earned him the Silver Ball, awarded to the tournament’s second-best player.

Mikel won the U-20 Silver Football. After being voted the tournament’s second-best player in 2005.

He was also awarded the African Young Player of the Year award in 2005 and 2006. It was Lionel Messi who won the best player and top scorer award. Mikel has indeed made Nigerians proud as far as his international career is concerned. Let’s not forget that Stanley Nwabali and Victor Osimhen are following in this direction as I write this bio.

Controversial Transfer to England:

On April 29, 2005, just days after Mikel turned 18, Manchester United announced that they had reached an agreement with the Norwegian club Lyn Oslo to sign him. The club’s website claimed they had negotiated directly with Mikel, stating that he had signed a contract to join them.

In this process, Mikel’s agents were bypassed, as the club convinced the young player to sign a four-year contract without their representation. Lyn Oslo reportedly sent a fax to Mikel’s agents overseas, declaring that their services were no longer needed.

Initial reports indicated that the deal was worth £4 million, with plans for the player to join Manchester United at Old Trafford in January 2006.

When the fight got tough:

Chelsea, a rival Premier League team, later made a counter-claim, asserting that they had an agreement with Mikel and his agents. However, Lyn Oslo refuted this allegation.

Following this, reports emerged suggesting that Chelsea had played a role in facilitating Mikel’s initial move to Europe, with the intention of signing him later. They supported this claim by revealing that Mikel had caught the attention of Chelsea manager José Mourinho while training with the first-team squad during the summer of 2004.

In a hastily organized press conference, Mikel expressed his excitement about joining Manchester United, where he was photographed holding a Manchester United shirt with the squad number 21.

When the Going Gets Tough:

After signing his contract with Manchester United, Mikel reportedly received a series of threatening phone calls from unknown individuals in Norway. In response, he was assigned a security guard and relocated to a safe hotel.

On May 11, 2005, during a Norwegian Cup match against Klemetsrud, Mikel went missing. Although he was not selected to play, he had been watching the game from the stands. It was believed that he had left the venue with one of his agents, John Shittu, who had flown in to meet him. His disappearance quickly garnered extensive media attention in Norway.

The situation escalated to a police inquiry after Lyn Oslo’s director, Morgan Andersen, suggested in the media that Mikel had been “kidnapped.” Manchester United’s assistant manager, Carlos Queiroz, echoed these claims, accusing Chelsea of being involved in the alleged abduction.

Eventually, it was revealed that Mikel had travelled to London with his agent, John Shittu. Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson considered flying to Oslo to speak with Mikel but ultimately decided against it once he learned that Mikel had left the country.

More on Contract Issue:

While staying at a London hotel, Mikel spoke to Sky Sports News about his disappearance, claiming he had been pressured into signing a contract with Manchester United. Both Manchester United and Lyn Oslo strongly denied these allegations.

Mikel stated that he had requested a week to consider the offer from the clubs, but his request was denied, and he felt pressured to sign without his advisors present. If Mikel’s claims were accurate, it would suggest that Manchester United violated FIFA and FA regulations. He expressed to the British media that Chelsea was the club he truly wished to join.

In response to these developments, Manchester United filed an official complaint with FIFA regarding the conduct of both Chelsea and Mikel’s agents, John Shittu and Rune Haunge, who were already known for their involvement in a previous scandal involving George Graham.

FIFA dismissed United’s complaints in August 2005, citing a lack of evidence to take action against Chelsea. After the tournament, Mikel did not return to Lyn Oslo, prompting the club to file a complaint with FIFA.

On August 12, 2005, FIFA ruled that Mikel should return to Lyn Oslo to fulfill his contract with the Norwegian club. They stated that a decision regarding the validity of his contract with Manchester United would be made at a later date.

The final agreement:

After more than a month of waiting, Mikel finally followed FIFA’s ruling and returned to Lyn Oslo in early September 2005 after being absent for three months. Instead of letting FIFA decide the legitimacy of his contract with Manchester United, Chelsea stepped in and took the initiative to resolve the transfer dispute through negotiations with both Lyn Oslo and Manchester United.

On June 2, 2006, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Lyn Oslo came to an agreement regarding Mikel’s future. It was decided that his registration would be transferred from Lyn to Chelsea, and Manchester United would relinquish their option on him.

As part of this deal, Chelsea agreed to pay Manchester United £12 million, with half of that amount due when the contract was finalized and the remaining half in June 2007. Additionally, Chelsea would pay Lyn Oslo £4 million, again with half paid immediately and the other half due in June 2007.

With this agreement in place, all claims related to the situation were dropped. On July 19, 2006, Chelsea received a work permit for Mikel after finalizing the £16 million transfer earlier that June. Joining Chelsea gave him the opportunity to play for an African-beloved club in England for over a decade. He played alongside notable names like Didier Drogba and Edden Hazard (in the later years), two of the greatest names in the Cheslea’s history.

Mikel Obi Passing Record:

He had a pass completion rate of 89.93% over his first three years at Chelsea. This is higher than anyone in the premier league over that period.

For these three years, he was the best player in the premier league who never lost many balls. He was the best in good short passes.

Football Rankings:

Chapman is a genius in his position. However, he doesn’t get much credit for the work he does for his team. We give you a breakdown of his rankings below.

Thanks for reading Mikel Obi’s Biography story. Please check around for more articles on Nigerian Football players that might interest you. The Life stories of Taiwo Awoniyi and Paul Onuachu will excite you. Let’s not forget Gift Orban, the fast-rising Nigerian professional footballer