Four Nigerians Make Final CAF Awards Shortlists

Nigeria will enter the CAF Awards gala in Rabat with renewed optimism and strong prospects for continental glory after Rasheedat Ajibade, Victor Osimhen, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and rising star Shakirat Moshood all secured places on the final shortlists for the 2025 CAF Awards, unveiled on Sunday by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Their inclusion across major categories positions Nigeria as one of the standout nations ahead of the ceremony scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

The final lists, drawn from a pool of elite African footballers and coaches, reflect performances recorded between January 6 and October 15, 2025, spanning domestic leagues, continental club competitions and international fixtures. Nigeria’s representation cuts across the men’s, women’s, and youth categories, underscoring the country’s depth of talent at both senior and developmental levels.

Reigning African giants Victor Osimhen and Rasheedat Ajibade headline Nigeria’s hopes, each competing in highly competitive categories. Osimhen, who has remained one of Europe’s most prolific forwards, is shortlisted for CAF Men’s Player of the Year, while Ajibade—fresh off another productive year with both Atlético Madrid Femenino and the Super Falcons—makes the final cut for CAF Women’s Player of the Year.

Goalkeeping sensation Chiamaka Nnadozie, widely regarded as one of the best shot-stoppers in women’s football, also secured a nomination in the women’s category. Her consistency for Paris FC and commanding performances for the Super Falcons have kept her among Africa’s elite. In the youth division, Shakirat Moshood, one of Nigeria’s brightest emerging talents, earned a spot on the shortlist for CAF Women’s Young Player of the Year, further highlighting Nigeria’s pipeline of rising stars.

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However, Nigeria also suffered notable omissions. Esther Okoronkwo, a key contributor for both club and country, was dropped from the final women’s shortlist despite an impressive year. Similarly, Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu did not make the cut for the Coach of the Year category, denying Nigeria representation on the coaching front.

CAF explained that all final nominees were selected by a panel comprising coaches, football legends, technical experts, and media analysts, with decisions rooted in performance metrics and impact across major competitions. The evaluation period included the CAF Women’s Champions League, CAF Champions League, international friendlies, and qualification matches, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of candidates.

This year’s ceremony, to be held in Rabat, Morocco, will celebrate Africa’s finest football performers in categories including Player of the Year (Men and Women), Interclub Player of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Young Player of the Year. The prestigious awards are expected to draw football dignitaries, federation leaders, and global media.

With four strong contenders across critical categories, Nigeria’s delegation heads into Rabat with ambitions of securing multiple titles. The spotlight will be on Osimhen, Ajibade, Nnadozie, and Moshood to translate their season-long brilliance into continental recognition on Africa’s grandest football awards stage.