In a historic moment, Victor Osimhen has been named the 2023 African Footballer of the Year, solidifying his place among the world's elite players. The Monday award ceremony in Marakesh not only marked a personal triumph for Osimhen but also ended Nigeria's 24-year wait for the prestigious individual honor, last claimed by the legendary Kanu Nwankwo in 1999.
Osimhen's remarkable year was highlighted by his stellar performances for Napoli, leading the Italian team to an unprecedented Serie A title. His incredible goal-scoring prowess, with 26 goals in the league, secured him the Pichichi (top scorer) award, surpassing George Weah's longstanding record as the highest-scoring African player in Serie A.
The former Lille striker's contributions did not go unnoticed in the global football arena. Osimhen secured the ninth spot in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings, making him the highest-ranked African and the most-ranked Nigerian in the award's history. His excellence was further recognized when he was crowned Italian footballers’ association player of the Year, a first for an African recipient of the AIC award.
Despite Nigeria's unfortunate miss of the 2022 World Cup, Osimhen's impact on the Super Eagles was undeniable. He emerged as the top scorer in the qualification race for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with an impressive tally of 10 goals.
While injuries have posed challenges for Osimhen at Napoli this season, Monday's African Footballer of the Year award stands as the crowning achievement of a remarkably successful year for the Nigerian striker.
