Nigeria’s football stars Rasheedat Ajibade and Chiamaka Nnadozie have been shortlisted for major categories in the 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards, a recognition that highlights their impact on the continent’s women’s football scene.
Okay News reports that the announcement was made on CAF’s official website on Thursday, revealing that the Super Falcons have also been nominated for the National Team of the Year award, following their remarkable performance at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Ajibade, who captained the Super Falcons, earned her nomination for African Women’s Player of the Year after a season marked by resilience and skill both at the national and club levels. Known for her leadership and attacking flair, she played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey to the semi-finals of WAFCON, where her consistency stood out among her peers.
Similarly, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper and captain of Paris FC, secured a nomination for the Goalkeeper of the Year award. Her impressive saves during the continental championship and her exceptional performances in the French Division 1 Féminine have cemented her reputation as one of the best shot-stoppers in African women’s football.
The Super Falcons’ team nomination underscores their dominance and unity, as they overcame several hurdles to remain one of the most successful national teams in Africa. Despite missing out on the WAFCON trophy, their performance earned widespread praise from fans and analysts across the continent.
In reaction to the nominations, several Nigerian football supporters have taken to social media to celebrate the players’ achievements, describing them as symbols of dedication and hope for aspiring female athletes.
The CAF Awards ceremony, which recognises the best talents in African football, will be held in Marrakech, Morocco, on December 8, 2024. Winners will be chosen based on votes from national team coaches, captains, media representatives, and football experts across Africa.
Sports analysts have expressed optimism that Nigeria could secure multiple wins at the event, considering the outstanding individual and team displays by the Super Falcons throughout the year.
Ajibade and Nnadozie’s nominations continue Nigeria’s proud tradition of excellence in African women’s football, following in the footsteps of past greats like Asisat Oshoala, who has previously dominated the CAF awards stage.
