Former Nigeria midfielder Christian Obodo was driving around the southern city of Warri on Sunday when he said two armed men forced themselves inside his car.
Nigeria maintained their perfect record in third place playoffs at the Cup of Nations having won six other matches between the beaten semi-finalists.
Nigeria put itself on a collision course with FIFA in July.
Spokesperson for Enugu state police in southeast Nigeria said John Obi Mikel paid a ransom of about 28,000 US dollars.
Diego Maradona denied rumors of ill health the day after, telling reporters: "I'm perfect. I've never been better."
Lionel Messi took a journalist's suggestion seriously, leaving him awestruck.
A video posted on Twitter after Tuesday's game showed Maradona needing help to walk as Argentina survived in the World Cup thanks to a late goal.
Messi's quest for World Cup glory faces a much tougher test on Saturday as Argentina face a highly-fancied France side in the last 16.
Marcos Rojo scored the winner for Argentina as they beat Nigeria 2-1. Argentina will face France in the Round of 16.
Argentina have to get past Nigeria in their last league match to qualify for the knockouts.
