In a momentous occasion, Victor Osimhen has clinched the prestigious title of African Footballer of the Year for 2023, solidifying his position among the world’s top players.
Osimhen faced tough competition from Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah but emerged victorious in Monday’s award ceremony. This achievement marks a historic moment as Osimhen ends Nigeria’s 24-year wait for Africa’s top individual football prize. The last Nigerian to win this honor was legendary Kanu Nwankwo in 1999.
Expressing his joy at the event, Osimhen credited the impact of Nigerian legend Emmanuel Amuneke, his coach at the U-17 level, and extended gratitude to fans from Nigeria and beyond.
“First of all, I want to say thank you to God for everything. Special thanks go to Mr. Emmanuel Amunike; without him, I don’t think I would be standing in front of you guys holding one of the most prestigious awards in world football,” he told the gathering of the creme-de-la-creme of African football and beyond.
“It’s a dream come true for me. I want to thank everyone who has seen me through life’s journey. In achieving my dreams, in achieving my goals.
“I appreciate Nigerians for their support; I appreciate Africa for putting me on the map, for encouraging me, and for defending me regardless of my shortcomings.
“I also thank Emmanuel Adebayo for his encouragement. Solomon Kalu, I appreciate you. And every African legend that I have looked up to while growing up has inspired me. Didier Drogba, my role model, thank you so much. God bless you all.”
The accolade acknowledges Osimhen’s remarkable performances with Napoli and the national team, where he played a pivotal role.
Leading Napoli to an unprecedented Serie A title, he scored 26 league goals, securing the top scorer award and surpassing George Weah’s record as the highest-scoring African in the Italian top flight.
His stellar form, pivotal in Napoli’s Serie A Team of the Year inclusion and earning the Best Striker prize, contributed to his notable ninth position in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings – the highest for an African and the most for a Nigerian in the award’s history.
Recently named Italian footballers’ association player of the Year, Osimhen, despite Nigeria missing the 2022 World Cup, showcased remarkable contributions to the Super Eagles, finishing as the top scorer in the AFCON 2023 qualification with 10 goals.
Despite facing injuries in the current Napoli season, Monday’s award marks the pinnacle of Osimhen’s highly successful year.
Ada Peter
