NPFL Top Scorer, Anas, to Battle Osimhen, Lookman for Nigeria Pitch Award Honour

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) top scorer Anas Yusuf faces a significant challenge for the Rashidi Yekini Award for Best Striker of the Year at the upcoming 12th Nigeria Pitch Awards. Yusuf will compete against established Nigerian forwards Ademola Lookman of Atlético de Madrid and Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen.

The 12th edition of the Nigeria Pitch Awards Ceremony, initially scheduled for earlier in the year, is now set to be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the Ibis Hotel on Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos. The event will honor achievements across 18 different categories.

“

a demonstration of our faith in Nigerian football. Since 2013, when we held our maiden edition in Calabar, we have shown Nigerians that our players deserve commendations and encouragement for their selfless, patriotic contributions to the growth of our football.

In other key categories, Atlético de Madrid striker Ademola Lookman, the previous year's winner, will contend for the King of the Pitch award against Fulham defender Calvin Bassey and Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen. The Queen of the Pitch award will see a close contest between Chiamaka Nnadozie of Brighton & Hove Albion Women FC, Esther Okoronkwo of AFC Toronto, and Rasheedat Ajibade of PSG Feminine. The Football Friendly Governor of the Year award will be contested by Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State.

Dr. Shina Phillips, President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, emphasized the ceremony's significance, stating it demonstrates "a demonstration of our faith in Nigerian football." He noted that since the first edition in 2013, the awards have aimed to recognize and encourage players for their dedication to the sport. Phillips also apologized for the delay in hosting the 12th edition, citing that while trophies and logistics were ready, unforeseen factors necessitated the postponement.

“

All necessary logistics, including the award statuettes, have been in place, but the awards itself could not be held as earlier scheduled.