As always, the Nigeria Football Federation, sponsored by energy giant, AITEO, put up a riveting show at the star studded NFF/AITEO Awards, held on 1st April 2019 at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Elite players, coaches, stakeholders, and other prominent guests witnessed what many would arguably call, the most emotional awards ceremony ever hosted by the NFF.
Legend
The major highlight of the evening was the recognition of the S 1994 Super Eagles Squad, who brought glory to Nigeria’s football in their day.
Amongst those present to receive the award were, Augustine Eguavoen, Sunday Oliseh, Jay Jay Okocha, Daniel Amokachi, Samson Siasia and Edema Fuludu.
Others include, Mutiu Adepoju, Peter Rufai, Alloy Agu, Nduka Ugbade, Ben Iroha, Uche Okechukwu, Finidi George, Taribo West and Victor Ikpeba.
In that moment, just as the daughter of late Super Eagles forward, Rashidi Yekini, walked up the stage to receive her father’s award, the hall was overcome with emotion as many reminisced about the legendary Yekini.
Stars
In the Best Player of the Year award category, Ahmed Musa emerged the winner, ahead of Odion Ighalo and Alex Iwobi.
Super Falcons defender, Onome Ebi, beat three-time African Best Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, and Francesca Ordega to claim the Best Player of the Year award in the female category.
Musa’s first goal against Iceland at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, was awarded the Best Goal of the Season.
Enugu Rangers gaffer, Gbenga Ogunbote, was voted male team Coach of the Year, while Super Falcons boss, Thomas Dennerby, won the award in the female team category.
Full List of Winners
Player of the Year (men): Ahmed Musa
Player of the Year (women): Onome Ebi
Coach of the Year (men) Gbenga Ogunbote
Coach of the Year (women) Thomas Dennerby
Young Player of the Year (men): Samuel Chukuweze
Young Player of the Year (women) Anam Imo
Team of the Season: Super Falcons
Fairplay Award, Akwa United
Goal of the Season Ahmed Musa
Fans of the Season Kano Pillars
NFF Development Award: Channels Television
NFF Order of Merit Award: MKO Abiola
Lifetime Achievement Award: Governor Akinwunmi Ambode
Featured image source: Naija News
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