Super Falcons stars Rasheedat Ajibade and Esther Okoronkwo have been nominated for the 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award after their outstanding performances at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Both players were key figures in Nigeria’s run to a record-extending 10th African title. Okoronkwo stood out with two goals and six assists during the tournament, while team Captain Ajibade scored once and created two more for her teammates as the Falcons reclaimed continental dominance under coach Justine Madugu.
The Nigerian duo will compete against eight other nominees from across Africa, including Zambia’s Barbara Banda, who won the award last year.
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has also been shortlisted for the CAF Coach of the Year award. Madugu masterminded Nigeria’s title success in Morocco, where his side defeated the hosts 3-2 in a thrilling final. His leadership and tactical discipline have earned him recognition among the continent’s elite coaches.
In the youth category, Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team captain, Shakirat Moshood, has been nominated for the CAF Young Player of the Year award. Moshood has been a consistent performer for the Flamingos and is expected to lead the team to the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will also take place in Morocco.
Adding to Nigeria’s presence on the shortlist, the Super Falcons have been nominated for the National Team of the Year award following their impressive WAFCON campaign.
