By Daily Sports Nigeria on October 23, 2025

Flying Eagles captain Daniel Bameyi has expressed his sincere appreciation to the Confederation of African Football and its President, Dr Patrice Motsepe, after being named among the nominees for the 2025 CAF Young Player of the Year award.

Bameyi, who captained Nigeria’s Flying Eagles to victory at the WAFU U-20 championship, a third-place finish at the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, and later led the team at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, described the nomination as both an honour and a motivation to continue striving for excellence.

“I want to sincerely thank CAF and President Patrice Motsepe for this incredible honour,” Bameyi posted on his Instagram page.

“Being named among the top young players in Africa is not only a recognition of my efforts but also the hard work of my teammates, coaches, and everyone who has supported me.”

The 19-year-old defender played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s U-20 campaign, leading the team with maturity and composure on the international stage. At the FIFA U-20 World Cup, Nigeria advanced to the Round of 16 before falling to Argentina in the knockout match.

Reflecting on his journey, Bameyi said the experience of captaining the Flying Eagles on three major stages was a defining period in his development.

“Representing Nigeria and wearing the captain’s armband was a proud moment. These tournaments shaped me both on and off the pitch. This nomination inspires me to work even harder and aim even higher,” he said.

As the 2025 CAF Awards approach, Bameyi’s nomination highlights his rapid rise as one of the standout young players on the continent — a promising talent with leadership qualities and international experience.

The defender also took the opportunity to commend CAF’s progress under the leadership of Dr Motsepe, praising key reforms and advancements across African football.

“CAF, under Dr Motsepe, has made major strides from financial transparency to the modernisation of competitions and investment in infrastructure and youth development,” Bameyi noted.

“These improvements are helping many African players like me dream bigger and compete at higher levels.”

Bameyi also extended his appreciation to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, NSC Director General, Bukola Olopade and President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, for their efforts in reshaping Nigerian sports and football in particular.

The CAF Awards, scheduled for later this year in Morocco, will celebrate excellence across African football, and Bameyi’s nomination is a significant milestone in a career that continues to gain momentum.

“To every African young player out there with a dream — keep pushing. This is just the beginning,” Bameyi concluded.

Source Punch Ng

Posted October 23, 2025

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