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Rasheedat Ajibade, Esther Okoronkwo nominated for 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Two Nigerian stars — Rasheedat Ajibade and Esther Okoronkwo — have been shortlisted for the 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, according to the nomination list released by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Friday.
Ajibade, captain of the Super Falcons, earned her nomination after an exceptional year in which she led Nigeria to their record 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco.
The forward, who recently joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) from Atletico Madrid, was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament.
Her leadership both on and off the pitch proved instrumental in the Falcons’ success under coach Justine Madugu.
Her teammate, Esther Okoronkwo, also stood out during the tournament.
The AFC Toronto striker scored the crucial penalty that sparked Nigeria’s comeback against hosts Morocco in the final and provided two assists, including the decisive pass that set up Jennifer Echegini’s winning goal.
Okoronkwo has maintained top form at club level in Canada, consistently contributing goals and assists while winning multiple Player of the Month awards.
The Nigerian duo will contend for the prestigious honour against eight other nominees:
Portia Boakye (Ghana)
Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi)
Temwa Chawinga (Malawi)
Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco)
Sanaa Mssoudy (Morocco)
Mama Diop (Senegal)
Barbra Banda (Zambia)
Racheal Kundananji (Zambia)
The winner will be announced at the CAF Awards 2025 ceremony later this year.
