Nigeria has earned a strong representation in the 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards, as Victor Osimhen, Stanley Nwabali, and Daniel Bameyi have all been shortlisted in major categories, highlighting the country’s growing influence on the continental stage.
The nominations were officially announced by CAF on Wednesday, covering all men’s categories including the African Player of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year, and Young Player of the Year awards.
Osimhen Returns to Top Ten for African Player of the Year
Napoli forward Victor Osimhen, who recently completed a loan spell with Galatasaray, where he won both the league and cup titles, has made a return to the top 10 shortlist for African Player of the Year after missing out on last year’s final list.
Osimhen’s exceptional performances for the Super Eagles, particularly his leadership and goal-scoring prowess during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, have solidified his place among the continent’s elite players. His consistency in front of goal and his role in Nigeria’s resurgence on the international stage have earned him recognition once again.
Nwabali Competes for Goalkeeper of the Year
Stanley Nwabali, Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper who plays for Chippa United in South Africa, has been nominated for Goalkeeper of the Year.
The 28-year-old will battle South Africa’s Ronwen Williams and Cameroon’s Andre Onana of Manchester United for the prestigious honour.
Nwabali, who became a fan favourite following his heroic performances at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he helped Nigeria reach the final, was also a nominee in last year’s edition. His consistency and command between the posts have made him one of Africa’s most dependable goalkeepers.
Bameyi Nominated for Young Player of the Year
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s U20 captain, Daniel Bameyi, has earned a nomination for Young Player of the Year, following an impressive campaign at both the U20 Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.
Bameyi’s leadership and defensive maturity have drawn praise from football analysts, with many tipping him as one of the brightest young talents emerging from Nigeria’s youth system.
CAF Awards Ceremony to Hold in Morocco
CAF also unveiled shortlists for other categories, including Coach of the Year, Interclub Player of the Year, National Team of the Year, and Club of the Year.
According to the football governing body, the 2025 CAF Awards will celebrate player and team achievements between January 6 and October 15, 2025.
The selection process, CAF noted, was carried out by a panel comprising members of its Technical and Development Committee, respected coaches, former players, and seasoned journalists across the continent.
While the exact date has not yet been confirmed, CAF announced that this year’s award ceremony will take place in Morocco, bringing together some of the biggest names in African football for a night of celebration and recognition.
With three Nigerians among the nominees, the nation’s football community will be eagerly awaiting the final results, hoping for another proud moment on the African stage.
