National Teams
Victor Osimhen: Only Nigerian footballer on Forbes Africa’s ‘30 Under 30’ list
By Monsurah Olatunji
Reigning African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen has earned a coveted spot on the 2024 Forbes Africa 30 under 30 list.
The 25-year-old striker had an amazing year with Napoli in the 2022/23 season, helping the club to their first Scudetto in almost forty years, alongside carting the Capocannoniere award for himself and getting placed 8th in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
The list features notable Nigerians like Afro singer, Fireboy DML, Victor Osimhen, Tobi Amusan, track and field athlete, and three others.
However, the Napoli talisman is the only Nigerian footballer on the list.
Meanwhile, his inclusion is not only due to his achievements in the football world, but also for his integrity and positive influence within the communities he’s been placed in, and beyond sports.
Recall that this list isn’t just about names; it’s about young dreamers and doers, blazing trails in entertainment, education, sports, tech, healthcare, art, and beyond.
Among the esteemed individuals featured on the list are:
– Fireboy DML, the 28-year-old Nigerian singer whose captivating music has garnered international acclaim.
– Victor Osimhen, the 25-year-old football prodigy whose prowess on the field has earned him recognition as one of Africa’s top athletes.
– Tobi Amusan, the 26-year-old athlete whose dedication and skill have propelled her to success in track and field.
– Ruth Erikan James, the 29-year-old fashion designer, widely known as Veekee James, who is reshaping the fashion landscape with her innovative designs.
– Josiah Akinloye, the 29-year-old tech founder, whose entrepreneurial spirit is driving technological advancements and fostering innovation in Africa.
– Abioye Oyetunji; founder and CEO FXKudi.
To curate the list, the finalists were drawn after a “rigorous vetting process” by the editorial team led by Under 30 curator Chanel Retief, alongside a panel of independent external judges such as Mo Abudu.
The evaluation process commenced in late 2023, with the support of its audit partner, SNG Grant Thornton.
Meanwhile, the Forbes #Under30Summit is slated in Gaborone, Botswana, from the 5th – 8th of May.
This year’s list, themed “Passion, Purpose And A Decade Of The 30 Under 30 List,” underscores the dynamism and potential of Africa’s youth.