CAF Awards 2025: Osimhen And Ajibade Lead Nigeria’s Bid For African Football Glory

As the African football community turns its attention to Rabat, Morocco, anticipation builds ahead of the CAF Awards 2025, with top players from across the continent vying for the most prestigious individual honours. The ceremony is set to kick off at 6 p.m. Nigerian time on Wednesday, November 19, highlighting the athletes who have defined African football over the past year.

In the men’s category, Mohamed Salah of Egypt and Liverpool has maintained his status as one of Africa’s elite footballers, registering 29 goals and 18 assists in the Premier League alone, contributing to Liverpool’s title triumph and helping Egypt secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi also stands out after a stellar campaign with Paris Saint-Germain, contributing to the club’s victories in the Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Super Cup, while aiding Morocco’s World Cup qualification. Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen continues to impress with 37 goals in 41 appearances for Galatasaray, playing a key role in the club’s Turkish league and league cup victories.

The competition for the men’s goalkeeper award features Morocco’s Munir Mohamedi, who led RS Berkane to CAF Confederation Cup success and their first Moroccan Botola Pro title, alongside compatriot Yassine Bonou of Al Hilal, recognized for his performances in the FIFA Club World Cup Best XI. South Africa’s Ronwen Williams also joins the fray after captaining Mamelodi Sundowns to their eighth consecutive league title and guiding South Africa to World Cup qualification.

In the women’s category, Morocco’s Ghizlaine Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy are among the favourites, with Chebbak lauded for her leadership and creativity, and Mssoudy celebrated as one of Africa’s most exciting attackers. Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade continues her rise after helping Nigeria secure a tenth WAFCON title, earning the Player of the Tournament award. The women’s goalkeeper nominations include Morocco’s Khadija Er-Rmichi, Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie, and South Africa’s Andile Dlamini, all recognized for their outstanding contributions at both club and international levels.

The event will also feature African football legends such as Mustapha Hadji, Gervinho, Rabah Madjer, Mohamed Sissoko, Idriss Kameni, Shikabala, Patrick Mboma, and Taribo West. Women’s football pioneers, including Janine van Wyk, Desire Oparanozie, Clementine Toure, and Bernadette Anong, will also be in attendance, celebrating the enduring legacy of African football. Fans can follow the ceremony live on the CAFTV YouTube channel, beginning at 19:00 local time.