Nigeria’s women’s football is poised for another successful outing at the 2024 CAF Awards, with an impressive 15 nominations across seven categories.
However, the headline news this year is the absence of Super Falcons and Bay FC star, Asisat Oshoala from the nominees' list—a first in a decade.
The record six-time Women’s Player of the Year winner will not be defending her title.
Ajibade and Nnadozie lead the charge
Super Falcons stars Chiamaka Nnadozie and Rasheedat Ajibade have been nominated for the Women’s Player of the Year award. The duo, who were also nominated last year, will compete against notable names like South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana and Zambia’s Barbra Banda.
Nnadozie’s stellar performances have also earned her a spot in the Goalkeeper of the Year category, where she is joined by Nigerian teammate Monle Oyono.
Ajibade and Nnadozie’s recognition reflects their consistent contributions at both club and international levels, with Nnadozie particularly standing out for her commanding displays between the posts for the Super Falcons.
Rising Stars, teams and coaches recognized
Flamingos pair Chiamaka Okwuchukwu and Flourish Sabastine are in contention for the Young Player of the Year award, thanks to their impactful performances at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
On the coaching front, Bankole Olowookere and Christopher Danjuma have been shortlisted for Coach of the Year for their exploits with the youth teams of Nigeria.
The Super Falcons, Falconets, and Flamingos have also been nominated for National Team of the Year, while Edo Queens made the Club of the Year shortlist following their strong run in the CAF Women’s Champions League. Edo Queens stars Emem Essien and Monle Oyono also feature in the Interclub Player of the Year category.
The CAF Awards ceremony will take place on December 16, 2024, in Marrakech, Morocco, where Nigeria aims to maintain its dominance on the continental stage.
