Esther Okoronkwo, the dynamic forward for the Super Falcons, has earned her inaugural nomination for the prestigious CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, according to Soccernet.ng.
This recognition celebrates her exceptional performances both at club level and her pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) championship.
Okoronkwo will compete alongside her compatriot Rasheedat Ajibade, facing formidable contenders such as Mama Diop, Sanna Mssoudy, Temwa Chawinga, Tabitha Chawinga, and others in the race for the accolade.
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Okoronkwo’s Impact at Club Level
Throughout the 2025 season, Okoronkwo has been the driving force behind AFC Toronto’s success in the Northern Super League’s inaugural campaign. Her leadership and skill propelled the Canadian club to clinch the Northern Super League Shield in their debut year.
She wrapped up the season with an impressive tally of 8 goals and led the league with 7 assists, establishing herself as one of the most influential attackers in the competition.
Her dual threat as a prolific scorer and creative playmaker has consistently troubled opposing defenses, making her the standout player in the league’s first edition.
Key Contributor to Nigeria’s WAFCON Victory
On the international front, the 26-year-old forward was instrumental in Nigeria’s triumphant campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Okoronkwo’s contributions included two goals and six assists, underpinning the Super Falcons’ journey to their record 10th continental crown.
Few African players have matched her level of influence for both club and country during the year, highlighting her exceptional form and versatility.
Comparing Okoronkwo with Chawinga and Banda
Her main rivals for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year title include Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga and Zambia’s Barbra Banda, both of whom have enjoyed remarkable seasons.
Chawinga netted 15 goals and provided 3 assists for Kansas City Current, playing a crucial role in securing the NWSL Shield in the United States.
Banda contributed 8 goals and 2 assists for Orlando Pride, although her team fell short of winning any major trophies.
When evaluating overall impact-combining goal involvements and silverware-Okoronkwo’s achievements stand out. In 2025, she has been directly involved in over 20 goals and has lifted two significant trophies: the WAFCON title and the Northern Super League Shield. These accomplishments place her in a league of her own on the continent this year.
Should the CAF base their decision on influence, statistics, and trophies won, Esther Okoronkwo presents a compelling case to be named Africa’s top female footballer in 2025, surpassing both Chawinga and Banda.