The life story and background of Gift Orban, the Nigerian forward

The life story and background of Gift Orban, the Nigerian forward

Kenneth Mwenda
updated at January 22, 2024 at 6:35 AM
In this article:
Super Eagles logo
Super Eagles
South Africa
KAA Gent logo
KAA Gent
Belgium
28
Lyon logo
Lyon
France
37

Gift Orban, a striking figure in the world of football, has risen rapidly through the ranks to become one of the sport’s most exciting talents. Born in Nigeria, he has a unique blend of Nigerian and Togolese heritage, reflecting his diverse cultural background. Orban’s journey from the streets of Benue State to the professional pitches of Europe is a story of determination and skill.

Gift Orban's stats
Gift Orban during a soccer game between Belgian KAA Gent and Cypriot APOEL FC Nicosia on Thursday, August 24, 2023, in Gent. Photo: Tom Goyvaerts (modified by author)
Source: Getty Images

His tenure in Europe, marked by impressive performances, has not only highlighted his abilities but also increased his popularity among football enthusiasts. Orban’s engagement with his fans, especially through social media platforms like Instagram, adds a personal touch to his growing legacy​.

Profile summary

Full name

Gift Emmanuel Orban

Date of birth

July 17, 2002

Age

21 years old (as of January 2024)

Zodiac sign

Cancer

Place of birth

Benue State, Nigeria

Nationality

Nigerian (with Togolese heritage on his mother’s side)

State of origin

Benue State, Nigeria

Position

Forward

Current club

Olympique Lyon

Senior career

Notable for playing at Stabaek (Norway) and then moving to Gent (Belgium)

Net worth

Estimated at $1.5 million

Social media

Instagram

How old is Gift Emmanuel Orban?

Gift Emmanuel Orban was born on July 17, 2002 (age 21 years as of January 2024)​. Gift Emmanuel Orban, born in Benue State, Nigeria, began his life journey with a unique blend of Nigerian and Togolese cultures.

His Tiv, Idoma, and Igede tribal heritage, stemming from his mother’s Togolese roots, played a crucial role in shaping his early experiences. Conversely, his father is Nigerian, originating from Nigeria’s Middlebelt region. Specifically, his father is from Benue State, a region in Nigeria known for its prolific food production.

Who are Gift Orban’s siblings?

Gift is the only child of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Orban. Though his educational journey did not extend beyond primary school due to personal choices or circumstances, his early life in Nigeria laid the foundation for his future pursuits​​.

He is reportedly single and has no children. Orban’s closeness to his family and friends, who provide him with great support, remains a significant part of his life​​.

Gift Orban’s net worth and financial success

Gift Orban’s net worth
KAA Gent's forward Orban Gift during the Jupiler Pro League match against STVV at the Ghelamco Arena on August 20, 2023, in Gent, Belgium. Photo: Tomas Sisk
Source: Getty Images

As of January 2024, Gift Orban's net worth is estimated at $1.5 million. He receives a substantial salary at Gent, earning approximately $6,451 weekly, which translates to an annual income of around $335,452. This significant salary ranks him among the highest earners in his league.

Gift Orban’s stats

Orban’s path to football stardom was not without its challenges. His initial training at a soccer academy in Lagos failed to yield a successful career deal, leading him to consider joining the Nigerian police force. However, his determination and talent eventually led him to join Bison FC, a local Nigerian club.

His skills quickly attracted the attention of Norwegian scouts, leading to a life-changing opportunity in Norway with Stabæk. Adapting to the freezing temperatures and cultural differences in Norway, including the absence of African cuisine, was challenging for Orban, who survived mainly on rice and chicken during his early days there​​.

In May 2022, Orban’s career took a significant turn as he officially joined Stabæk. His remarkable performance, marked by scoring 16 goals in 22 appearances, not only made him a fan favourite but also earned him the Young Player of the Year award in the Norwegian First Division.

In January 2023, Orban’s career trajectory ascended further as he signed with Belgian Pro League club KAA Gent. His debut was nothing short of spectacular, scoring twice in a match against Westerlo and continuing to amass goals, including a memorable hat trick in the 2023–2024 Conference League campaign against Pogon Szczecin​​​​.

Which is Gift Orban’s current team?

Gift Orban's current team
Orban Gift during the Belgian Croky Cup match between KAA Gent and Club Brugge on January 16, 2024, in Gent, Belgium. Photo by Tomas Sisk
Source: Getty Images

On January 17th, 2024, the Nigerian forward Gift Orban moved to the French league and signed a long-term deal with Olympique Lyon. His transfer was valued at approximately $17.6 million.

His remarkable record of scoring 32 goals in 48 matches has attracted the interest of several top European clubs. While Eintracht Frankfurt was initially seen as the likely destination for Orban, Olympique Lyon in Ligue 1 has surprisingly secured the signing of the prolific Nigerian striker.

Social media presence

Gift Orban, the Nigerian footballer, actively engages with his fans on Instagram, sharing insights into his professional and personal life. His Instagram handle is @gift.orban, where followers can stay connected with his latest updates and experiences.

The story of Gift Orban is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one’s dreams despite challenging beginnings. His journey from being a young boy in Benue State to becoming a football sensation in Europe serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers and sports enthusiasts around the globe.

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Authors
Kenneth Mwenda photo
Kenneth Mwenda
Kenneth Mwenda is a business and sports writer with over five years of experience. At Sportsbrief, he contributes to writing biographies and listicles.