By Patrick Ngwaogu

The year 2024 has been a landmark year for Nigerian football, with achievements that have solidified the country’s status as a powerhouse in African and global football. From the success of the national teams to individual player accolades, Nigeria has truly demonstrated excellence on the pitch. Under the leadership of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, the country has reached new heights and set the stage for even greater accomplishments in 2025.

Let us take a comprehensive look at Nigeria’s remarkable footballing achievements in 2024.

Major Achievements of 2024

1. Super Eagles Qualified for AFCON 2025

One of the highlights of 2024 was the qualification of the Super Eagles for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which is set to take place in Morocco. The Nigerian national team displayed a commanding performance during the qualification campaign, finishing at the top of their group. This achievement reflects the resurgence of the Super Eagles under their new coach, who has instilled discipline, tactical flexibility, and attacking flair.

Key players like Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Samuel Chukwueze played pivotal roles in ensuring that Nigeria secured a place in the prestigious tournament. Osimhen, in particular, had a stellar year, emerging as one of Africa’s top goal scorers. Fans are optimistic that the Super Eagles will not only participate but contend for the title in Morocco.

2. Nigeria’s Participation in the CAF Women’s Champions League

In the women’s football arena, Nigerian clubs once again demonstrated their dominance by qualifying for the CAF Women’s Champions League. Clubs such as Rivers Angels and Bayelsa Queens have consistently represented Nigeria with pride, and their qualification for this year’s tournament is a testament to the strength of women’s football in the country.

With players like Rasheedat Ajibade and Christy Ucheibe setting the standard, Nigeria is not only producing exceptional players but also leading the way in promoting and developing women’s football in Africa.

3. CHAN 2025 Qualification

The home-based Super Eagles, composed of players from the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), secured their spot in the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN). This tournament is exclusively for players plying their trade within the continent, and Nigeria’s qualification underscores the growing competitiveness of the NPFL.

The team’s qualification campaign was marked by resilience and skill, with standout performances from players like Chijioke Akuneto and Ebube Duru. The CHAN tournament presents an excellent opportunity for these players to gain international exposure and further their careers.

5. Olympic Qualification for Women’s Football

Another historic milestone for Nigeria in 2024 was the qualification of women’s football teams for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. This achievement marks a return to the global stage for Nigerian football.

The men’s team, led by a new generation of stars, has been hailed as one of the most talented squads in recent years. Meanwhile, the women’s team, the Super Falcons, continues to build on their legacy as one of Africa’s most successful teams. Both teams are set to make Nigeria proud on the world stage in 2024.

6. Individual Player Accolades

The year also saw Nigerian players receiving recognition for their outstanding performances:

• Lookman Ademola was crowned the CAF African Player of the Year (Men), cementing his place as one of the best strikers in the world. His exploits for both club and country have made him a role model for aspiring young players across Africa.
• Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Super Falcons’ goalkeeper, was named the CAF African Goalkeeper of the Year (Female). Her heroics in goal have been instrumental in Nigeria’s success, and she continues to inspire young female goalkeepers across the continent.

These individual accolades reflect the quality of Nigerian players and their impact on both domestic and international football.

7. 44th in FIFA Rankings

Nigeria ended 2024 ranked 44th in the FIFA World Rankings, a significant improvement from previous years. This rise is a direct result of consistent performances across all levels of national football. The Super Eagles’ victories in competitive matches, coupled with strong showings in friendlies, have contributed to this upward trajectory.

This ranking not only highlights the progress made by Nigerian football but also serves as motivation to aim even higher in 2025.

8. CAF Best Female Team of the Year
9. Staff training for the first time in many years
10. Adequate training for the referees Including providing them with compensation Equipment
11. Winning the Under 20 WAFU Tournament and qualifying for under 20 AFCON
12. Staff training for the first time in many years
    The Super Falcons added another feather to their cap by being named the CAF Best Female Team of the Year. This award is a testament to their dominance in African football and their resilience in the face of challenges. The team’s performance in 2024, including their qualification for the Olympics and their spirited displays in international competitions, have been nothing short of exemplary.

The Role of Leadership: Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau

The achievements of 2024 would not have been possible without the visionary leadership of NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau. His tenure has been marked by a renewed focus on grassroots development, improved player welfare, and enhanced partnerships with sponsors. Gusau’s commitment to transparency and accountability has restored confidence in Nigerian football administration.
Under his guidance, the NFF has prioritized youth development programs, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the national teams.

His efforts to professionalize the NPFL and invest in women’s football have also paid dividends, as seen in the success of Nigerian clubs and national teams.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As Nigeria basks in the glory of 2024, the focus now shifts to sustaining this momentum in 2025. Here are some key areas to watch:

1. AFCON 2025: The Super Eagles will aim to win their fourth AFCON title in Morocco. With a talented squad and a strong coaching team, the expectations are high.
2. World Cup 2026 Qualification: The standing of the Super Eagles on World cup qualifying table may not look bright, but there is surely light at the end of the tunnel. The vigour that the remaining qualifiers would be prosecuted will further elevate Nigeria’s footballing reputation.
3. Youth Development: The continued success of the Golden Eaglets and other youth teams will be crucial for the future of Nigerian football.
4. Club Football: Nigerian clubs will aim for continental glory in the CAF Champions League and CAF Women’s Champions League.
5. Improved FIFA Rankings: With consistent performances, Nigeria could break into the top 30 of the FIFA rankings in 2025.

The year 2024 has been a banner year for Nigerian football, filled with achievements that have brought pride to the nation. From the Super Eagles’ AFCON qualification to the Super Falcons’ accolades, the successes on the pitch have been matched by improvements off it, thanks to the leadership of Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau.

As we look forward to 2025, there is every reason to believe that Nigerian football will continue to thrive. With a talented pool of players, dedicated administrators, and passionate fans, the future is bright for the Super Eagles, Super Falcons, and all other national teams.