2023 CAF Awards: Gusau Celebrates Osimhen, Oshoala, Nnadozie, Falcons as Nigeria Win Big in Morocco

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has expressed his happiness about Nigeria’s success at the 2023 CAF Football Awards which held held in Marrakech, Morocco.

Gusau noted that the achievements of the Women’s National Team, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and Victor Osimhen are truly remarkable.

The NFF Boss who was personally present at the Hotel Movenpick, received the first honour that came Nigeria’s way – “WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM OF THE YEAR”; which dedicated the award to all women football teams on the African continent.

The dedication of the Women’s National Team of the Year award to all women football teams on the African continent by Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau reflects a spirit of unity and support for women’s football.

Chiamaka Nnadozie, who shone brightly at the FIFA World Cup finals in Down Under this year summer as the Super Falcons reached the Round of 16, was the undoubted winner of the honour of Goalkeeper of the Year (Women). The Paris FC of France safe hands made a moving speech: “To all the young girls growing up in Africa, dreaming of becoming a footballer one day, believe me dreams do come true. My dad didn’t want me to play football but I’m sure he’s gonna see this and be happy. So, keep dreaming, keep working and I believe that one day you’ll get to this stage.”

Chiamaka Nnadozie’s acknowledgment and encouragement to young girls aspiring to become footballers, despite facing initial resistance, is inspiring. Her message emphasizes the importance of perseverance and belief in achieving one’s dreams.

Asisat Oshoala’s record-extending sixth award as Player of the Year (Women) showcases her outstanding contributions to the sport. The recognition of her achievements is a testament to her skill and dedication.

The historical significance of Victor Osimhen being crowned as the Player of the Year is noteworthy. His achievement as the first Nigeria player in 24 years to receive this honor is a moment of pride for Nigerian football. The mention of past winners like Nwankwo Kanu, Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, and Victor Ikpeba adds depth to the rich football history of Nigeria.

Overall, these achievements reflect the strength and talent within Nigerian football and contribute to the country’s legacy in the sport on the African continent and beyond.

Gusau said: “I am very excited tonight. This has been hugely rewarding for our football and for our country as a whole. I congratulate Osimhen, Oshoala and Nnadozie, and I congratulate the Super Falcons as a team for bringing us this honour.

“My charge would be that they all keep doing what they know how to do best, keep improving and keep winning. The sky will be the beginning for them.”

Osimhen became the first player in the history of the African Football Awards to have been crowned Player of the Year (Men) after having pocketed the Young Player of the Year (Men) in an earlier year. Only last Monday, the 24-year-old was crowned the 2022/2023 Player of the Year in Italy’s Serie A, after having won the Young Player of the Year in the same league in the 2021/2022 season.