Lookman, Osimhen top nominees list as organisers release candidates for 11th Nigeria Pitch Awards

^{Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP}
The Nigeria Pitch Awards has unveiled its nominees for the 2025 edition, with some of Nigeria’s biggest football stars vying for top honors. The awards, which recognize excellence in Nigerian football, will take place later this year.

The Battle for King of the Pitch
Atalanta striker Ademola Lookman is aiming to dethrone his Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen as King of the Pitch. Lookman, who has been in impressive form for his club, will face stiff competition from Osimhen, who has been one of the top scorers in the Turkish Super Lig. Al-Kholood FC defender William Troost-Ekong is also in contention for the top award.

Other Categories
The Queen of the Pitch category will see Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade (Atlético de Madrid Femenino) compete against Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC) and Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC). In the Goalkeeper of the Year category, Maduka Okoye (Udinese Calcio), Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United), and Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars) are the nominees.

Coach of the Year and Team of the Year
The Coach of the Year award will see Moses Adukwu (Edo Queens) compete against Fidelis Ilechukwu (Rangers International) and Daniel Ogunmodede (Remo Stars). The Team of the Year award will go to one of Remo Stars, Enugu Rangers, or Edo Queens.

Sportsmanship Award and Other Categories
The Sportsmanship Award will be contested by George Aluo (Nigerian National League chairman), Kunle Soname (Remo Stars chairman), and Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars FC). Other categories include the Sam Okwaraji Award, State with the Best Grassroots Football Development Programme, Football Pitch of the Year, and Corporate Sponsor of the Year.

Voting Process
The winners will be determined by a voting process involving a College of Voters comprising Nigerian sports journalists and an independent collation body. The awards organizers have reiterated their commitment to transparency, credibility, and integrity in the voting process.
The Nigeria Pitch Awards 2025 promises to be an exciting event, with some of Nigeria’s top football stars vying for top honors. With its commitment to transparency and credibility, the awards will undoubtedly be a celebration of excellence in Nigerian football.