At the renowned 2023 CAF Awards ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco on Monday night, Senator John Owan Enoh, the minister of sports development, praised Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala for emerging Men’s and Women’s African Footballers of the Year, respectively.
The Minister stated that the Nigerian team’s success in taking home the most important individual awards in African football is proof of their exceptional skill, commitment, and significant contributions to the beautiful game.
He praised their outstanding efforts, which have not only brought honor to Nigeria but also gained international acclaim for their extraordinary abilities and dedication.
In addition, he praised Chiamaka Nnadozie of the Super Falcons for becoming the first-ever Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year Award winner and reaffirming her status as the top goalie.
“The victory of Victor Osimhen, Asisat Oshoala, Chiamaka Nnadozie and the Super Falcons at the CAF Awards not only brings pride and honor to Nigeria but also opens a new vista for the country’s sports landscape. Their achievements serve as inspirations to aspiring young athletes, demonstrating that hard work, dedication, and talent can lead to remarkable success on the global stage.
“Osimhen’s growth from the local suburb of Olusosun to the world stage is a demonstration of why grassroots development is a major part of our plans. This administration is committed to creating a platform for more Osimhens, Oshoalas, etc. We will foster the development of our sports, and ensure we set the path for the future,” Enoh said.
The Minister expressed his satisfaction with the two Nigerians, Osimhen and Oshoala, setting a new mark by being the first players from the same nation to win the coveted trophies in the same year.
Victor Osimhen is the first Nigerian to receive the Men’s African Footballer of the Year award in 24 years. His remarkable skill on the field, along with his outstanding exploits for club and country, have justifiably won him this honor. Additionally, he placed among the top 10 in the 2023 Ballon D’or Awards.
As for Asisat Oshoala, her amazing accomplishments, which demonstrate her unmatched talent and dedication to the game, have led to her being named Women’s African Footballer of the Year for a record-breaking sixth time.
As the most decorated African player, the Super Falcons star is sitting alone on the CAF Awards stage.
Senator Enoh also expressed her sincere congratulations to the Super Falcons, whose tenacity and commitment to excellence have helped to establish Nigerian women’s football as a major player on the continent. She said that the team’s achievements and the recognition of Nigerian football talent are directly related to their combined efforts.
He continued by saying that the Ministry of Sports Development would never waver in its support of Nigerian athletes in all sports, reiterating its dedication to giving them the tools, chances, and motivation they need to succeed on both national and international stages.
