Nigerian forwards Janet Akekoromowei and Oluwakemi Adegbuyi have been nominated for the Women’s Young Player of the Year award at the 2026 CAF Awards.

The duo are among 10 promising African footballers shortlisted for the prestigious individual award, following their impressive performances in women’s football.

Akekoromowei and Adegbuyi will represent Nigeria in the race for the award, which recognises the continent’s most outstanding young female football talent.

The nominees, as unveiled by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), include:

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1. Romaine Gandonou

2. Maéva Nyadjou

3. Grace-Ruth Sery

4. N’Sira Ouédraogo

5. Rose Kadzere

6. Fautina Azraf

7. Janet Akekoromowei

8. Oluwakemi Adegbuyi

9. Adji Ndiaye

10. Winfrida Gerald

The nomination of the two Nigerian forwards further highlights the country’s growing influence in women’s football and the emergence of promising young talents.

The 2026 CAF Awards will celebrate outstanding performances across African football, with the Young Player of the Year category expected to attract significant attention