The Ballon d’Or: A Prestigious Honor Recognizing Football’s Elite
Since its inception in 1956, the Ballon d’Or has become synonymous with excellence in football, acknowledging players who demonstrate exceptional skill, talent, and influence on the sport.
Initially, the award was reserved for European footballers, but its scope expanded in 1995 to include players from around the world, reflecting the sport’s growing global popularity.
Nigerian footballers have made their mark on the Ballon d’Or, showcasing their exceptional contributions and talent on the global stage.
Below is a comprehensive list of Nigerian players who have been nominated for this prestigious award:
1. Finidi George
Year: 1995
Finidi’s outstanding performance for Ajax, where he played a crucial role in their Champions League victory, earned him a 21st-place finish in the voting.
2. Daniel Amokachi
Year: 1995
Amokachi’s impressive displays for Everton and his contributions to both club and country did not yield any votes, but he was still recognized for his achievements.
3. Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha
Year: 1995
Okocha’s talent for Eintracht Frankfurt was not enough to secure him a spot on the voting list, but his skills on the pitch did not go unnoticed.
4. Nwankwo Kanu
Years: 1996, 1999
Kanu’s remarkable seasons with Nigeria’s Olympic team and Arsenal earned him back-to-back nominations, with his 1996 campaign placing him 11th in the voting.
5. Victor Ikpeba
Year: 1997
Ikpeba’s impressive form with Monaco earned him a 32nd-place finish in the voting, solidifying his reputation as one of Nigeria’s finest players.
6. Sunday Oliseh
Year: 1998
Oliseh’s standout performances with Ajax and his memorable goal against Spain in the World Cup did not translate to votes, but he remains a respected figure in Nigerian football.
7. Victor Osimhen
Year: 2023
Osimhen’s sensational season with Napoli, where he scored 31 goals, catapulted him to an 8th-place finish, marking the highest-ever ranking for a Nigerian player.
8. Ademola Lookman
Year: 2024
Lookman’s impressive campaign with Atalanta, highlighted by his hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, earned him a nomination for the prestigious award.
9. Asisat Oshoala
Years: 2022, 2023
Oshoala’s remarkable performances with Barcelona Femini made her the first female Nigerian to earn two nominations for the Ballon d’Or, solidifying her status as one of the world’s top female players.
