Nigeria misses CAF women’s player of the year shortlist for first time since 2001

Nigeria has been left without a representative on the shortlist for the 2026 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award for the first time, ending the country’s long-standing presence in the prestigious individual category.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled its 10-player shortlist on Tuesday, November 3, with nominees drawn from seven countries across the continent.

The omission marks a significant development for Nigeria, whose players have featured prominently in the award category over the years.

Malawi and Cameroon lead the nominations, with both countries producing multiple contenders.

Malawi’s representatives are sisters Tabitha Chawinga and Temwa Chawinga, while Cameroon has three nominees: Marie Ngah Manga, Michaely Bihina and Monique Ngock.

Other shortlisted players include Zambia’s Barbra Banda, South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana, Morocco’s Hanane Ait El Haj, Algeria’s Marine Dafeur and Ghana’s Portia Boakye.

Although Nigeria failed to secure a nomination in the main women’s individual category, the country remains represented in other sections of the awards.

The Super Falcons are nominated for Women’s National Team of the Year, while Janet Akekoromowei and Oluwakemi Adegbuyi earned nominations for Women’s Young Player of the Year.

Edo Queens goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma is also shortlisted for Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year.

The 2026 CAF Awards ceremony is scheduled to hold on December 7 in Lagos.