Fans, journalists to decide NFF monthly award winners

The Nigeria Football Federation will on Thursday (today) reel out the maiden nominees for the NFF Monthly Awards, which will be voted by fans and journalists, the body announced on Wednesday.

With three categories of awards, the project is aimed at celebrating Nigerian players in the Nigeria Premier Football League and those plying their trades with foreign clubs.

The categories are Player of the Month for male and female, Goal of the Month, and Discovery of the Month.

“As football leagues across the globe resumed fully last month, the Nigeria Football Federation is proud to announce the launch of the much-anticipated NFF Monthly Awards, a celebration of the outstanding performances of Nigerian football players across various football leagues, including the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL,” the NFF said in a statement obtained by our correspondent on Wednesday.

“With the football calendar in full swing, the NFF Monthly Awards aim to honour the brilliance, dedication, and passion that Nigerian football players bring to the game, recognising the top players who have left their mark on the pitch.”

According to the NFF, the nomination process for the awards will be data-driven.

Nominations for the first round of awards will be announced today, while voting will be open to fans and journalists till midnight of October 7.

The votes will, however, be in quota for the two categories of voters.

“Fan votes will account for 40% of the final decision, enabling supporters to have their voices heard and directly influence the outcome of these prestigious awards.

“The remaining 60% will be determined by journalists and industry professionals, ensuring a balanced and well-rounded selection process.”

NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, also said, “The NFF Monthly Awards are a key part of our efforts to further elevate Nigerian football, not only by recognising outstanding talent but by engaging with fans and the media in a way that brings the football community closer together. We believe that this initiative will encourage excellence on the field and foster a deeper connection between players and their supporters.

“The NFF Monthly Awards are a step forward in celebrating the rich and growing talent pool, and we look forward to the excitement that the awards will bring to fans, players, and the media.”