Nigeria Leads 2025 CAF Awards Nominations After WAFCON Glory

Nigeria Leads 2025 CAF Awards Nominations After WAFCON Glory

By Niyi Busari 

 Nigeria’s dominance in women’s football has been emphatically recognized as the country headlines the shortlist for the 2025 CAF Women’s Awards, following the Super Falcons' triumphant campaign at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) released its nominations across various categories, with Nigerian players, coaches, and teams earning accolades that underline the nation’s resurgence in continental women’s football.

Ajibade, Okoronkwo Among Finalists for CAF Women’s Player of the Year

Super Falcons’ attacking duo Rasheedat Ajibade and Esther Okoronkwo are both in contention for CAF Women’s Player of the Year, highlighting their pivotal roles in Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

Okoronkwo was one of the tournament’s standout performers, contributing two goals and six assists, while team captain Ajibade added one goal, two assists, and led with composure and tenacity throughout the competition. The pair will compete with top contenders such as Barbra Banda (Zambia) and Malawi's Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga.

Nnadozie, Madugu, and Olowookere Also Recognized

Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Super Falcons’ reliable goalkeeper, has been shortlisted for Goalkeeper of the Year, after consistently delivering crucial saves during Nigeria’s title-winning run.

In the Coach of the Year category, Justine Madugu, who masterminded the Falcons’ successful WAFCON campaign, earns a well-deserved nomination. He is joined by Bankole Olowookere, coach of Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, recognized for his role in nurturing emerging talent.

Youth Talent and Team Performance Honoured

Reflecting Nigeria’s strength in youth development, Shakirat Moshood, captain of the Flamingos, is a finalist for the Young Player of the Year award. Her leadership and consistency have positioned her as one of Africa’s brightest young prospects ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, to be held in Morocco.

The Super Falcons are shortlisted for National Team of the Year, with the Flamingos also included, further validating Nigeria’s depth in the women’s game.

Bayelsa Queens Represent at Club Level

At the club level, Bayelsa Queens FC earned a nomination for Women’s Club of the Year, capping off an exceptional year for Nigerian women’s football at all levels.

CAF Awards Set for Marrakech

The 2025 CAF Awards gala will be held in Marrakech, Morocco, where Africa’s finest football talents will be celebrated. With Nigeria leading the pack across categories, the ceremony is set to be a showcase of the country’s enduring impact on the women’s game.