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Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been honoured at the 2026 Best of Africa Awards, winning the Beyond the Pitch Award in partnership with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), in recognition of his philanthropic initiatives and contributions to football development in Nigeria.
The Coventry City forward received the honour on Monday in London for his commitment to giving back to society, particularly through initiatives aimed at nurturing young football talents and promoting grassroots football in Nigeria.
Awoniyi’s recognition highlights his growing influence beyond the pitch, where he has continued to use his platform as a professional footballer to support community development and create opportunities for aspiring players.
Through his charitable initiatives and investment in youth football, the Nigerian international has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that the next generation of footballers has access to opportunities to develop their talents and pursue professional careers.
His work in Nigeria, especially in grassroots football development, reflects the growing role of professional footballers in supporting the long-term growth of the game in their home countries.
The striker attended the award ceremony with his wife, Taiwo, his brother, Victor Awoniyi, other family members, friends and members of his team, who joined him to celebrate the achievement.
England international Michelle Agyemang won the women’s category of the Beyond the Pitch Award, further underlining the importance of recognising footballers whose contributions extend beyond their performances on the field.
Established in 2011, the Best of Africa Awards celebrates people of African heritage in the United Kingdom and beyond, recognising excellence across sport, entertainment, business and other fields, with a particular emphasis on philanthropy, leadership and community impact.
The Beyond the Pitch Award, presented in partnership with the PFA, reflects the importance of recognising footballers who make meaningful contributions away from the game, using their influence to support communities and inspire positive change.
Awoniyi’s latest honour places him among a distinguished group of football personalities who have been recognised by the Best of Africa Awards for their achievements and impact beyond football.
Previous Nigerian and African football personalities recognised by the awards include Alex Iwobi, who received the Community Action Award in 2018, and Mohamed Salah, who won the Player of the Year award in the same year. Other past honourees include former Ivory Coast captain Yaya Touré and Kenyan international Victor Wanyama.
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