Victor Osimhen, football entrepreneur Hon. Kunle Soname and Akwa Ibom State each claimed two major prizes at the 12th Nigeria Pitch Awards in Lagos, making the ceremony a landmark celebration of Nigerian football.
Osimhen, Soname and Akwa Ibom lead the honours
The event, held yesterday, was attended by Inspector General of Police Olatunji Disu, who was represented by Lagos Commissioner of Police CP Tijani Fatai. Also present were NFF Acting Deputy General Secretary Dr. Ademola Olajire, a representative of Akwa Ibom Governor Pastor Umo Eno, Nigeria Pitch Awards President Dr. Shina Phillips and several media personalities.
- Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen retained the King of the Pitch award and also won the Rashidi Yekini Award for Best Striker of the Year.
- Bet9ja founder and Remo Stars chairman Hon. Kunle Soname received the Sam Okwaraji Award for his contributions to football administration and philanthropy, as well as the Sportsmanship Award.
- Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno was named Football Friendly Governor of the Year, while the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo won Football Pitch of the Year.
Akwa Ibom’s two victories highlighted the state’s backing for football leadership and its investment in sporting facilities, completing the night’s trio of double-award achievements.
Players, coach and team honoured
Paris Saint-Germain Féminine forward Rasheedat Ajibade won the Queen of the Pitch award in the women’s category. Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was recognised as Goalkeeper of the Year, while Fulham defender Calvin Bassey took the Defender of the Year prize.
- Alex Iwobi — Midfielder of the Year
- Justine Madugu — Coach of the Year
- Remo Stars FC — Team of the Year
Grassroots, corporate and media recognition
The awards also celebrated achievements in football development, commercial support, administration and journalism across Nigeria.
- Lagos State — State with the Best Grassroots Development Programme
- MTN Nigeria — Corporate Sponsor of Football
- Charles Diya of New Telegraph — Print Journalist of the Year
- Cecilia Omorogbe of Channels TV — Television Journalist of the Year
- Anthony Bekederemo of Brila 88.9 FM — Radio Journalist of the Year
- Samuel Ahmadu of Savid News — Online Journalist of the Year
