NIGERIA’s football stars will learn their CAF Awards fate on November 19, 2025, when the Confederation of African Football hosts its annual gala night in Rabat, Morocco.
News Point Nigeria Sports reports that The ceremony, scheduled for 7:00 p.m. local time (6:00 p.m. Nigerian time) will honour the most outstanding African footballers, coaches, and national teams for their performances over the last 12 months.
This year’s edition marks the third consecutive time Morocco is hosting the prestigious awards, with CAF President Patrice Motsepe and top football dignitaries expected to grace the occasion.
Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen and Super Falcons star Rasheedat Ajibade headline a strong Nigerian contingent shortlisted in multiple categories.
Other nominees include:
Esther Okoronkwo – Women’s Player of the Year contender
Chiamaka Nnadozie – Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year nominee
Stanley Nwabali – Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year nominee
Daniel Bameyi – Young Player of the Year (Men)
Shakirat Moshood – Young Player of the Year (Women)
Justine Madugu – Women’s Coach of the Year
Bankole Olowookere – Women’s Coach of the Year
Osimhen, currently shining at Galatasaray is seeking to reclaim the CAF African Player of the Year title, which he first won in 2023.
He faces fierce competition from stars including:
Mohamed Salah (Egypt/Liverpool)
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco/PSG)
Serhou Guirassy (Guinea/Dortmund)
Denis Bouanga (Gabon/LAFC)
Zambo Anguissa (Cameroon/Napoli)
Meanwhile, Ademola Lookman, who lifted the award last year, is notably absent from the final shortlist due to a dip in form.
Ajibade and Okoronkwo are considered top contenders for Women’s Player of the Year — a category last won by Barbra Banda of Zambia.
Super Falcons shot-stopper Nnadozie is strongly tipped to clinch the Best Goalkeeper (Women) award for the third straight year, after another stellar campaign in France and England.
Nigeria’s influence also extends into coaching categories, with both Madugu and Olowookere recognised for their achievements with the Super Falcons and Flamingos respectively.
Clubs and National Teams Also Set for Recognition
Other honours to be awarded on the night include:
National Team of the Year (Men & Women)
Club of the Year
African Goal of the Year
Interclub Player Awards