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CAN Slams Nollywood Film ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, Demands Apology from Producer Ini Edo

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the title of the newly released Nollywood movie A Very Dirty Christmas, describing it as “offensive, insensitive, and disrespectful” to the Christian faith.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association expressed deep concern over the use of the word “dirty” in connection with Christmas, a season that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and symbolises purity, peace, love, and redemption.

“Linking such a holy celebration with the word ‘dirty’ diminishes its spiritual meaning and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational,” the statement read.

CAN emphasised that while it supports creative freedom in the film industry, such expression must be exercised with responsibility and sensitivity, especially in Nigeria’s multi-religious society.

The body questioned the approval process, calling on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how the title was cleared for public exhibition during the Christmas season. It also urged Nollywood stakeholders, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria, to establish clearer guidelines on the use of religious themes.

Specifically addressing the film’s producer, acclaimed actress Ini Edo, CAN urged her to “show sensitivity” to the concerns raised by the Christian community, reconsider the title, and issue a public apology.

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Osun Community Declares End to Female Genital Mutilation, Pledges to Report Offenders

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By Prosper Mene

The people of Akinlalu community in Osun State have publicly declared their total abandonment of female genital mutilation (FGM) and vowed to report anyone found practising or promoting it to law enforcement agencies.

The historic declaration was made on Thursday during a well-attended public event organised by Action Health Incorporated (AHI) with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Speaking on behalf of the community, the traditional ruler, Oba Israel Oluwabusola, the Alakinlalu of Akinlalu, announced the collective decision to end the harmful traditional practice.

“As the monarch of this town, I have consulted widely with my people and we have all agreed to completely stop the practice of female genital mutilation in Akinlalu,” Oba Oluwabusola said.

“We will continue to collaborate with the NGO, health officials, and security agencies to ensure that no one engages in this harmful act. Anyone caught will be promptly handed over to the appropriate authorities,” he added.

The monarch attributed past adherence to the practice to ignorance of its severe health consequences, including complications that can lead to stillbirths.

“Our forefathers did not know that many of the problems we faced, including stillbirths, were caused by FGM. Now that we are aware of the dangers, we are committed to protecting our daughters,” he stated.

He urged residents to spread the message throughout the community, emphasising that education and awareness are key to ensuring future generations live healthier lives.

Fatima Idris, Programme Officer at Action Health Incorporated, described the declaration as a significant milestone in the fight against FGM in Osun State.

Mrs Mary Bifarin, founder of Mary Care Foundation – a community-based partner organisation – praised the inclusive approach of the sensitisation programme.

“We ensured that the monarch, chiefs, religious leaders from both Islamic and Christian faiths, and the entire community were fully involved. Today’s public declaration sends a clear message that Akinlalu is no longer a place where female genital mutilation will be tolerated,” she said.

The Akinlalu declaration is part of broader ongoing efforts in Osun State to eradicate FGM. Recently, AHI, with support from UNFPA and in partnership with the Osun State Ministry of Education, trained adolescent students from five secondary schools in Ilesa on comprehensive sexuality education, with a strong focus on the dangers of FGM and the importance of reproductive health rights.

Community leaders and health advocates have hailed the development as a powerful example of how tradition can evolve when armed with knowledge, unity, and commitment to the well-being of the girl child.

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NewsSport

Okeke Secures Bronze Medal Glory with Club América at World Sevens Football Tournament

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By Prosper Mene 

Nigerian international Chidinma Okeke played a pivotal role in Club América’s gritty 1-0 victory over Flamengo, clinching third place and a $700,000 prize at the prestigious World Sevens Football (W7F) Tournament in Fort Lauderdale.

In a tense third-place showdown on December 7 at Beyond Bancard Field, América’s defender Okeke anchored a rock-solid backline that frustrated the Brazilian giants throughout the 30-minute encounter. The decisive moment arrived in the 22nd minute when midfielder Jana Gutiérrez unleashed a stunning volley, lifting the ball over advancing goalkeeper Flávia Mota before smashing it into the net, a strike already hailed as a contender for goal of the tournament.

The match was a cagey affair from the outset. Scarlett Camberos nearly opened the scoring early for América, while Flamengo’s Gláucia rattled the crossbar. Goalkeeper Vivi Holzel produced a fine save to deny Montserrat Saldivar as the first half ended goalless. Post-break, América hit the post through substitute Nancy Antonio, and Flamengo’s desperate late surge, including switching an outfield player into goal, yielded nothing as Sandra Paños and her defense, led by Okeke and captain Irene Guerrero, held firm.

Club América’s starting VII: Sandra Paños (GK), Chidinma Okeke (#4), Irene Guerrero (C), Scarlett Camberos, Sarah Luebbert, Jana Gutiérrez, with key subs including Antonio and Saldivar.

The bronze medal capped a strong showing for the Mexican Liga MX Femenil side, who finished with a 3-2 record across five matches. They had stormed through the group stage with convincing wins over Club Nacional (5-2) and Deportivo Cali (3-0), before drawing San Diego Wave FC on penalties. However, a heartbreaking 2-1 extra-time semifinal loss to rivals Tigres, thanks to Stephany Mayor’s brace, sent them to the podium playoff.

Meanwhile, NWSL outfit San Diego Wave FC claimed the $2 million top prize with a flawless 5-0 run, including a 3-0 final triumph over Tigres, while the Mexicans pocketed $1 million for silver. The $5 million prize pool underscored the event’s growing stature in women’s football.

For the 25-year-old Okeke, born August 11, 2000, in Nigeria, the podium finish marks another milestone in a jet-setting career. The centre-back rose through FC Robo Queens before stints at Madrid CFF (Spain), Hapoel Beer Sheva, and MyNavi Sendai (Japan). She joined Club América ahead of their 2025 Liga MX campaign and boasts senior Super Falcons caps, including the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and Paris 2024 Olympics, though she has been absent from recent national team call-ups.

This Fort Lauderdale edition, the second in the W7F series after Portugal’s inaugural in May-featured elite clubs from North, Central, and South America in a fast-paced 7v7 format designed to thrill fans with non-stop action. Backed by major investment, the tournament is poised for global expansion.

Okeke’s contribution highlights Africa’s rising influence in women’s club football, blending defensive steel with international pedigree on the world stage.

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Enugu State Government Nullifies Forced Underage Marriage, Vows to Empower Teenage Victim

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The Enugu State Government has officially nullified the illegal union of a 13-year-old girl, identified as Amarachi, to an adult man in the Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area. The intervention, announced today by Commissioner for Gender, Women and Children Affairs, Hon. Ngozi Eni, shows the state’s commitment to protecting minors from harmful traditional practices that violate Nigeria’s Child Rights Act.

The marriage, which had already been consummated, came to light after reports surfaced on social media, causing widespread outrage. Acting swiftly, Eni invited the couple and their families for questioning, where Amarachi confessed she had been coerced into the union against her will. “The mother of the groom claimed he was an only son and needed a wife secured for him, but she fell silent when reminded that no underage girl could be forced into such a role,” Eni revealed in a statement released Thursday.

Underage marriage remains a persistent challenge in parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural communities where poverty and cultural norms often intersect. The practice exposes young girls to severe health risks, including cervical cancer, obstetric fistula, and lifelong psychological trauma, as highlighted by Eni during the intervention. Nigeria’s Child Rights Act of 2003 sets the minimum marriage age at 18, a law Enugu State has fully domesticated to safeguard vulnerable children.

The government has pledged comprehensive support for Amarachi’s rehabilitation, including access to quality education and empowerment programs to rebuild her future. “We will take all necessary measures to nurture and empower her, ensuring she thrives beyond this ordeal,” Eni assured. The commissioner extended gratitude to key stakeholders, including Igbo-Eze North LGA Chairman Hon. Uche Ogalla (noted in some reports as Michael Ogalla), the local House of Assembly member, and the Enugu State Civil Service Commission Chairman, for their rapid collaboration in dissolving the marriage.

This incident shows efforts in Enugu to eradicate child marriage and related harms like female genital mutilation. In 2021, the state’s Council of Traditional Rulers publicly vowed to end such practices, aligning with national and international calls from the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development. Despite progress, challenges persist in northern states where cultural and religious factors have delayed full implementation of the Child Rights Act.

Eni’s office emphasized that this nullification serves as a stern warning: “No tradition justifies robbing a child of her rights.” Advocacy groups have hailed the action as a beacon for other states, urging federal reinforcement of anti-child marriage laws.

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NewsSportTrending

Nnadozie Claims Historic Third Straight CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year Award

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By Prosper Mene

Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie has been crowned the 2025 CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, securing the prestigious accolade for the third consecutive season. The 24-year-old Super Falcons star received the honor at the glittering CAF Awards ceremony held here tonight, edging out formidable challengers Morocco’s Khadija Er-Rmichi and South Africa’s Andile Dlamini.

Nnadozie’s latest triumph caps a banner year that has seen her elevate both club and country to new heights. With Paris FC last season, she played a pivotal role in lifting the Coupe de France Féminine in May, showcasing her shot-stopping prowess in high-stakes domestic action. Her move to England’s Women’s Super League side Brighton & Hove Albion has only amplified her global profile, where she has quickly become a cornerstone of the team’s defense.

On the international stage, Nnadozie was the undisputed hero of Nigeria’s triumphant 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign in Morocco. As the Super Falcons clinched a record-extending 10th continental title, she anchored the backline with four clean sheets across six matches, conceding just twice from open play, including in the thrilling 3-2 final victory. Her commanding performances earned her the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper award, a fitting prelude to this CAF hat-trick.

This three-feat following wins in 2023 and 2024, places Nnadozie in rarefied air, unmatched by any other African women’s goalkeeper in recent history. Her sustained excellence has not gone unnoticed beyond the continent; just weeks ago, she was shortlisted for the 2025 FIFA Best Women’s Goalkeeper award, positioning her alongside global elites like Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger and Spain’s Cata Coll.

Reflecting on her achievement via a post-ceremony statement shared on social media, Nnadozie expressed gratitude and resolve: “This is for every young girl in Nigeria and across Africa dreaming of standing tall in goal. Three in a row is special, but the work never stops. Thank you to my family, coaches, and the Super Falcons for believing in me.” Her words underscore a career defined not just by accolades, but by inspiring the next generation amid the growing momentum of women’s football in Africa.

As Nnadozie eyes upcoming challenges, including Brighton’s WSL title push and Nigeria’s preparations for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers, her legacy as Africa’s premier custodian is firmly etched.

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NewsSport

Super Falcons Crowned CAF Women’s National Team of the Year 2025

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By Prosper Mene

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have once again etched their name into the annals of African football history. The nine-time African champions were officially named the CAF Women’s National Team of the Year at the prestigious 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards ceremony, held at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Rabat, Morocco.

This triumph marks the third consecutive year the Super Falcons have claimed the honor, following back-to-back victories in 2023 and 2024, and their seventh overall since the award’s inception. It’s a resounding endorsement of their unyielding dominance on the continental stage, where they remain the most decorated women’s national team in Africa.

The award arrives on the heels of an unforgettable 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), hosted by Morocco earlier this year. Under the guidance of head coach Justin Madugu, the Falcons delivered a masterclass in resilience and tactical brilliance, storming to their record-extending 10th title. Their path to glory included commanding wins over Zambia and South Africa in the group stages, before a heart-stopping final against the host nation, Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses.

Trailing 2-0 after just 24 minutes in the decider, the Super Falcons refused to yield. A blistering second-half comeback, fueled by three goals in a frantic 24-minute spell—sealed a 3-2 victory and sparked wild jubilation among fans and players alike. Throughout the tournament, Nigeria won five of their six matches, boasting four clean sheets and conceding only twice from open play, a testament to their defensive solidity and attacking flair.

“We are overjoyed and deeply grateful for this recognition,” said Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was herself nominated for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award. “This isn’t just about one tournament; it’s about the hard work, unity, and passion that define this team. Winning WAFCON was special, but bringing this home for Nigeria makes it even sweeter. We’re already looking ahead to more battles on the global stage.”

The Super Falcons edged out formidable contenders Ghana’s Black Queens, who secured bronze at WAFCON after a strong return to the competitio and Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses, who hosted the event with aplomb but fell just short in the final. The Black Queens’ inclusion in the shortlist highlighted their resurgence, while Morocco’s bid was bolstered by their impressive home performances.

Individual stars from the Falcons also shone brightly in the nominations. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie earned a spot on the shortlist for CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, her tournament heroics between the posts proving pivotal. Coach Madugu, meanwhile, was recognized for his leadership in guiding the team to glory, landing a nomination for Women’s Coach of the Year.

Nigeria’s influence extended beyond the senior side at the awards. The U-17 Flamingos were also shortlisted for the National Team of the Year (Women) category after reaching the Round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, while Bayelsa Queens represented the domestic front with a nod for Club of the Year (Women).

The Super Falcons’ latest accolade serves as both a celebration of past triumphs and a clarion call for the future. With eyes now turning to qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and beyond, Africa’s queens of the pitch are poised to continue their reign, inspiring a new generation of female footballers across the continent.

 

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Health

Breast Cancer: Polaris Bank and C.O.P.E Celebrate 30 Years of Saving Lives and Empowering Women

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The Care. Organization. Public. Enlightenment (C.O.P.E) marked three decades of transformative work in breast cancer awareness, early detection, and survivor support with a heartfelt celebration held at the Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

The event brought together healthcare experts, survivors, donors, and corporate allies, with Polaris Bank, the organization’s longstanding partner and key sponsor taking center stage in commemorating this significant milestone.

In his address, Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa Osagie, Chairman of C.O.P.E’s Board of Trustees, reflected on his first encounter with founder Mrs. Ebunola Anozie, praising her as “a passionate visionary whose dedication has revolutionized breast health in Nigeria.” He highlighted that C.O.P.E has grown into a national force, offering free monthly breast screenings, prosthetic bras, and financial aid to women in need.

“Over the past ten years, Nigeria has seen remarkable improvements in breast cancer survival rates, thanks to early detection and ongoing education,” Professor Osagie stated. “We are also now importing breast prosthetics for women post-mastectomy, available at the C.O.P.E Centre, to help restore confidence and comfort.” He announced plans to establish a permanent C.O.P.E Centre featuring screening facilities, a conference hall, and accommodation for women undergoing treatment or recovery.

Founder and CEO Mrs. Ebunola Anozie shared an emotional reflection on how personal loss fueled her lifelong mission. “C.O.P.E was born from grief but transformed into a purpose that endures,” she said. “Starting as a modest awareness campaign in 1995, we’ve grown into a national movement educating millions and saving countless lives through early detection. Our next goal is to have a dedicated centre,a sanctuary of hope, healing, and care for every woman.”

She expressed gratitude to Polaris Bank and other partners whose unwavering support has sustained and expanded C.O.P.E’s life-saving work through the years.

A poignant highlight was the heartfelt testimony of Mrs. Agatha Obi, a breast cancer survivor who found hope through C.O.P.E. “In 2011, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and faced a mastectomy,” she recalled. “It was overwhelming. But through C.O.P.E, I found community, courage, and hope. Thirteen years later, I am alive and thriving, grateful for the support I received during my darkest days.”

Representing Polaris Bank’s Managing Director, Mrs. Bukola Oluyadi delivered a message of ongoing commitment, affirming the bank’s pride in partnering with C.O.P.E. She stated:

“Reaching 30 years of dedicated service and advocacy is a remarkable achievement. C.O.P.E has been a beacon of hope, resilience, and societal impact. At Polaris Bank, we remain committed to supporting the fight against breast cancer through awareness, early detection, and continuous care. Together, we will empower women, strengthen families, and uplift communities.”

Mrs. Oluyadi praised the C.O.P.E team for their unwavering dedication to public enlightenment and healthcare access, promising that Polaris Bank will continue to champion initiatives that save lives and promote national well-being.

The celebration concluded with renewed pledges from partners and donors to support C.O.P.E’s vision of establishing a permanent Centre, a symbol of hope for women across Nigeria.

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Wearing padded bras may cause nipple dryness, say experts

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By Prosper Mene 

In the quest for the perfect silhouette, millions of women worldwide turn to padded bras for that seamless, confidence-boosting lift. But what if the very padding designed to smooth and conceal is quietly wreaking havoc on one of the body’s most sensitive areas?

Experts are sounding the alarm: prolonged use of padded bras could be contributing to nipple dryness, irritation, and long-term discomfort, urging a rethink on everyday lingerie choices.

The warning comes amid growing awareness of how everyday undergarments interact with delicate skin. Dr. Elyse Love, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, explains that while padded bras offer aesthetic benefits, like preventing nipple show-through on thin fabrics, they can trap moisture and create friction against the nipples. “The added layers can reduce airflow, leading to dryness, chafing, or even exacerbated conditions like eczema in prone individuals,” she notes. This isn’t just anecdotal; medical sources corroborate that ill-fitting or overly restrictive bras, including padded varieties, are a common culprit for nipple soreness and dryness, especially during hormonal shifts or in dry climates.

At the heart of the issue is biology meets fashion. Nipples, rich in nerve endings and sebaceous glands, rely on natural oils and ventilation to stay hydrated. Padded bras, often made with synthetic foams and fabrics, can disrupt this balance by compressing tissue and limiting breathability. A recent health advisory in Nigeria highlighted this exact concern, quoting experts who link constant padding to not just dryness but potential sagging from undue pressure on breast tissues.a00830 “It’s like wearing a cozy sweater on a summer day—comfortable at first, but it builds up heat and irritation over time,” adds Dr. Ayesha Haque, another dermatology specialist.

The ripple effects extend beyond aesthetics. Women report itchy, cracked skin that worsens with sweat or hormonal cycles, sometimes mimicking symptoms of thrush or contact dermatitis.

For active individuals, the problem intensifies during workouts, where motion amplifies chafing. Fitness enthusiasts on forums like Reddit echo this frustration, with many ditching padding for lighter alternatives to avoid the “pokey” discomfort that backfires into dryness. Even broader risks lurk: some padded bras contain trace chemicals like formaldehyde, flagged as potential irritants or carcinogens by consumer watchdogs, though regulators maintain they’re safe in low doses.

Not all experts agree on the severity, some, like lingerie designer Lily Flast of Soutien NYC, argue that well-fitted padded bras are harmless for most and preferable to chafing from unpadded options.

However, the consensus leans toward moderation. “Rotate your bras and prioritize cotton or moisture-wicking materials,” advises the Cleveland Clinic, recommending over-the-counter lanolin creams or petroleum jelly for relief. For those with persistent issues, a dermatologist visit is key to rule out underlying conditions.

As lingerie brands race to innovate, think seamless, ventilated paddings and eco-friendly foams consumers are empowered to demand better. Sarah Thompson, a 32-year-old marketing executive from Lagos, swapped her daily padded routine for wireless alternatives six months ago. “My nipples haven’t felt this soft in years,” she shares. “It’s a small change with big payoffs.”

This story serves as a gentle nudge: comfort isn’t just about the fit—it’s about listening to your skin. Next time you reach for that padded push-up, pause and ask: Is it lifting you up, or holding you back?

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NewsHealth

Ogun State Commits to Empowering 10,000 Rural Girls with Free Sanitary Pads Initiative

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By Prosper Mene

The Ogun State Government has announced plans to distribute free sanitary pads to 10,000 girls in rural communities across the state in a bold step toward tackling period poverty and promoting menstrual hygiene

The initiative, unveiled today by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, aims to ensure that adolescent girls in underserved areas can attend school without the burden of menstrual challenges.

The program, dubbed “Pad for Every Girl,” will target secondary school students in remote local government areas, including Ifo, Ado-Odo/Ota, and Yewa North, where access to affordable hygiene products remains a significant barrier. Officials estimate that the distribution will commence in early December, with partnerships from local NGOs and health organizations to facilitate logistics and education sessions on menstrual health.

“This is more than just providing pads; it’s about breaking the cycle of absenteeism and stigma that affects our girls’ education and future,” said Dr. Aisha Bello, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development. “In Ogun State, we believe every girl deserves dignity and opportunity. By addressing this basic need, we’re investing in healthier, more empowered communities.”

The announcement comes amid growing national conversations on menstrual equity in Nigeria, where economic pressures have driven up the cost of sanitary products, now averaging ₦500–₦800 per pack in many markets. Studies from organizations like UNICEF indicate that one in four girls in rural Nigeria misses school during their periods due to lack of supplies, contributing to higher dropout rates among female students.

This government-led effort builds on previous NGO-driven campaigns in the state. For instance, the Pamilerin Foundation’s “Give A Girl Child A Pad” initiative distributed 12,000 pads in Ogun in 2022, while more recent programs by groups like Padbank have reached thousands through school outreaches in Lagos and Ogun.

However, state officials emphasized that the scale of this new program, reaching 10,000 beneficiaries marks a significant escalation, with a budget allocation of ₦50 million from the state’s social welfare fund.

During the launch event at the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta, beneficiaries from pilot schools shared testimonials. “Before, I would stay home for days every month because we couldn’t afford pads. Now, I can focus on my studies,” said 14-year-old Fatima Adebayo from a rural school in Ijebu-Ode.

The initiative will also include workshops on reusable pad alternatives and hygiene practices, in collaboration with health experts, to foster long-term sustainability.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy, hailed the program as a cornerstone of the state’s gender equity agenda, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality.

Advocates praise the move but call for nationwide replication. “Ogun’s commitment sets a precedent. Federal support could amplify this to millions,” noted Chioma Okoro, executive director of a Lagos-based women’s rights NGO.

As distributions roll out, the state anticipates measurable impacts: reduced school absenteeism, lower infection rates from poor hygiene, and boosted confidence among rural girls.

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NewsSport

Super Falcons’ Chiamaka Nnadozie Nominated for FIFA The Best Women’s Goalkeeper Award 2025

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By Prosper Mene 

Nigerian international, Chiamaka Nnadozie, the talismanic goalkeeper for the Super Falcons, has been shortlisted for the prestigious FIFA The Best Women’s Goalkeeper Award for 2025, highlighting her meteoric rise as one of the world’s elite shot-stoppers.

The 24-year-old, currently starring for Brighton & Hove Albion in England’s Women’s Super League, earned the nomination following a stellar 2024/25 season that blended club triumphs and international glory. FIFA announced the shortlist today, placing Nnadozie alongside a formidable field of global talents, including Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC), Spain’s Cata Coll (Barcelona), Chile’s Christiane Endler (Lyon), England’s Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), England’s Anna Moorhouse (Angel City FC), and the USA’s Phallon Tullis-Joyce (Manchester United).

Nnadozie’s campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. At club level, she anchored Paris FC to their first Coupe de France Féminine title in over two decades, delivering a clean sheet in the final against rivals Paris Saint-Germain and saving two penalties in the shootout to seal victory in May. Her commanding presence helped the team reach the French league playoffs, earning her widespread acclaim for consistency and leadership between the posts.

On the international front, Nnadozie was the linchpin in Nigeria’s triumphant return to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) crown in Rabat, Morocco, in August. Across six matches, she secured four clean sheets, conceding just twice from open play—including both in the final against the hosts—and claimed the Golden Glove as the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper. Her clutch saves in the knockout stages were instrumental in the Super Falcons’ 10th continental title.

This FIFA nod caps a year of accolades for Nnadozie, who became the first African nominated for the Women’s Yashin Trophy at the 2025 Ballon d’Or, where she finished a respectable fourth in September. She is also in contention for a third consecutive CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award at the upcoming Confederation of African Football ceremony, a feat that would further solidify her status as Africa’s premier custodian.

“If Nnadozie lifts the Yashin or any of these honors, it would be historic,” said Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu, who himself made waves as the first African nominated for the Ballon d’Or Best Coach award earlier this year. “Her journey is about persistence and faith—it’s not just for her, but for every young girl in Africa dreaming big in football.”

Nnadozie’s form has carried over seamlessly to Brighton, where she recently earned a nomination for the Barclays WSL Save of the Month for October after a stunning denial of Tottenham’s Eveliina Summanen from a free-kick. Her quick reflexes, aerial dominance, and penalty prowess have drawn comparisons to the likes of Endler and Coll, positioning her as a frontrunner for the FIFA award.

The winners of The Best FIFA Football Awards 2025 will be revealed at a gala ceremony in Zurich, Switzerland, on December 17. As Nigeria celebrates another milestone for its women’s football stars, Nnadozie’s shortlist spot underscores the growing global influence of African talent in the women’s game.

For Nnadozie, who burst onto the scene as a teenager with the Super Falcons, the recognition is deeply personal. “This is to encourage every goalkeeper in Africa: Keep working hard, because anything is possible,” she shared earlier this year after her Ballon d’Or nod.

With eyes now on Zurich, all of Nigeria and the continent will be cheering for the Super Falcons’ unbreakable wall to claim the ultimate prize.

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