Tinubu highlights Osimhen's CAF POTY award as he marks one year in office

Tinubu highlights Osimhen's CAF POTY award as he marks one year in office

Hassan Abdulsalam 22:17 - 29.05.2024

Tinubu was sworn in as the fifth democratically elected president, since the return of democracy in 1999, following his victory in the keenly contested 2023 presidential election.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has included Napoli striker Victor Osimhen's recognition as Africa's best footballer in his list of achievements during his first year in office.

Tinubu was sworn in as the fifth democratically elected president, since the return of democracy in 1999, following his victory in the keenly contested 2023 presidential election.

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Tinubu contested on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, and emerged victorious against his closest rivals, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Peter Obi of the Labour Party, LP.

Osimhen, Oshoala won African Player of the Year

Osimhen secured the prestigious 2023 African Footballer of the Year award, beating Mohamed Salah and Saido Mane.

He became the first Nigerian male player to win the award since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.

The King and Queen of African football, Osimhen and Oshoala.
The King and Queen of African football, Osimhen and Oshoala. (Photo Credit: CAF/X)

The 25-year-old striker's success wasn't limited to individual accolades as he played a key role in Napoli's unexpected Serie A title win last season, leading the Italian top division in goals scored.

Osimhen, scored 26 goals as he helped Napoli to a surprise triumph in Serie A last season and was the leading scorer in Italy’s top division.

“It is a dream come true. I have to thank everybody who has helped me on this journey and all Africans who have helped to put me on the map despite my faults,” Osimhen said.

Adding to the Nigerian footballing success, Asisat Oshoala secured a record-breaking sixth title as Africa's Women's Footballer of the Year.

Her dominance both with Barcelona and the national team, the Super Falcons, speaks volumes about her talent.

Furthermore, Chiamaka Nnadozie received the well-deserved recognition of Women's Goalkeeper of the Year. The Super Falcons themselves were named Women's National Team of the Year, after an impressive performance at the World Cup.

Tinubu celebrates Nigeria's Sporting success

President Tinubu's celebration of his first year in office, on May 29, 2024, includes the successes of the footballers and the national team in 2023.

In a press release titled "One Year In Office: How Tinubu Administration is Building a Better Nigeria," Tinubu highlighted the significant milestones achieved by the Ministry of Sports under his leadership.

President Bola Tinubu gets happy 72nd birthday wishes from Sports Minister Owan Enoh.
President Bola Tinubu gets happy 72nd birthday wishes from Sports Minister Owan Enoh.

The release also emphasized that during Tinubu’s tenure, Nigerian athletes have excelled on the international stage, showcasing their exceptional skills and achieving remarkable success in major events.

According to the release, “Grassroots sports development has been another significant focus, with efforts to identify and nurture young talent from various parts of the country, ensuring a continuous pipeline of skilled athletes who can represent Nigeria in various sports disciplines both locally and internationally.

“Nigerian athletes have excelled on the international stage, demonstrating their prowess in major events such as the African Cup of Nations, the African Games, and the World Relay Championships in the Bahamas.

“The administration has prioritized preparing Team Nigeria for global competitions like the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, with strategic planning and resource allocation directed towards comprehensive training programs and enhanced facilities to ensure optimal performance.

“Notable achievements include the senior national football team, the Super Eagles, winning silver at the African Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, marking their first finals appearance and silver medal in 23 years.

“The Super Falcons, Nigeria’s female national team, qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024, ending a 16-year Olympic drought. At the African Games in Accra, Ghana, Nigeria placed 2nd. Additionally, Victor Osimhen was named African Footballer of the Year, the first Nigerian to receive the honor in 24 years. These accomplishments highlight Nigeria’s competitive spirit and commitment to excellence in sports.”

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