The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards ceremony is set to return to Nigeria for its 2026 edition, marking the first time in approximately a decade that the event will be hosted in the country. Nigeria last hosted the awards in 2017 when the 2016 edition took place at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang claiming the top prize.
Return to Nigeria Confirmed
According to reports from ESPN, the awards will indeed return to Nigeria following confirmation from CAF, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and the Presidency. The CAF Ordinary General Assembly is also scheduled to be held in Nigeria. This development follows a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe during the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, where the Nigerian leader gave his approval for the events.
The 2026 award will be determined by performances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2025/26 football seasons. However, the AFCON outcome remains controversial due to an ongoing case at the Court of Arbitration for Sports, though it is expected to be resolved before the ceremony.
Top Favourites for 2026 CAF Player of the Year
1. Sadio Mane
Senegal captain Sadio Mane is among the leading contenders for the 2026 award. If victorious, it would be the third CAF Best award of his illustrious career. Mane led Senegal to win AFCON 2025 and was named CAF Player of the Tournament, although CAF later stripped the Teranga Lions of the title. He also played a pivotal role for Al-Nassr, who are on the verge of winning the Saudi Pro League title.
2. Victor Osimhen
Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen was one of the standout players at AFCON 2025, scoring four goals to help Nigeria secure the bronze medal and earning a spot in the tournament's team of the competition. He enjoyed a remarkable 2025/26 season with Galatasaray, netting twice in a 4-2 victory over Antalyaspor to lead the club to their fourth consecutive league title. However, his chances may be hindered by the Super Eagles' failure to qualify for the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
3. Achraf Hakimi
Morocco's national team captain and current award holder, Achraf Hakimi, remains a strong favourite after leading the Atlas Lions to the final of AFCON 2025 on home soil. He is an influential member of the Paris Saint-Germain squad, which is close to winning the French Ligue 1 title again and has reached the Champions League final for the second consecutive year.
4. Brahim Diaz
Brahim Diaz has been one of the most impressive international players in Africa since switching his allegiance from Spain to Morocco. He won the AFCON 2025 Golden Boot with five goals but missed a potential match-winning penalty for Morocco, costing the North Africans the title, though CAF later awarded the trophy to Morocco. However, his limited minutes at Real Madrid and the club's two consecutive trophyless seasons could diminish his chances unless he delivers an outstanding performance at the World Cup.
Honourable Mentions
Other notable contenders include Mohamed Salah, Ademola Lookman, and Ronwen Williams.
New Rules Approved
In related news, FIFA and IFAB have approved new rules following Senegal's walk-off during the AFCON 2025 final against Morocco. The world football governing body and rule makers confirmed that any such incident will result in a red card for individuals and forfeiture for the team.
