Two promising Nigerian footballers, Kemi Adegbuyi and Janet ‘Semenya’ Akekoromowei, have earned places on the 10-player shortlist for the 2026 CAF Young Player of the Year award in the women’s category.
The nomination recognises their impressive performances and growing influence in women’s football, with both players making significant contributions to their respective teams over the past year.
Adegbuyi, 16, has enjoyed an impressive campaign with Nigeria’s Flamingos, playing a key role in the team’s run to the semi-finals of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. The achievement marked only the second time Nigeria had reached that stage of the competition.
The young forward has also caught attention with her performances at the WAFU B level and in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), further strengthening her reputation as one of the country’s emerging talents.
Akekoromowei, popularly known as ‘Semenya’, also secured a place on the shortlist following her contributions to the Falconets. The striker, who plays for Portuguese club Benfica, represented Nigeria at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup held in Poland earlier this year.
Their inclusion highlights the growing recognition of Nigerian talents on the African football scene as they continue to make their mark at both international and club levels.
Other players nominated for the award include Grace-Ruth Sery, Rose Kadzere, Adji Ndiaye, Romaine Gandonou and Winfrida Gerald.
The 2026 CAF Young Player of the Year award celebrates outstanding young female footballers who have distinguished themselves through their performances and contributions to the game.
