The inaugural Nigerian UK Sports Awards (NUKSA), scheduled for September 15, 2025, in London, promises to be a landmark event celebrating the vast achievements of Nigerians in sports while simultaneously raising funds for grassroots sports development in Nigeria. This grand occasion will acknowledge the contributions of over 130 individuals and organizations across a diverse spectrum of 36 award categories, encompassing sporting prowess, philanthropic endeavors, legacy building, community development, and media influence. Hosted by prominent media personalities Mayowa Quadri and Sirayah Shiraz, the NUKSA awards aim to inspire future generations of Nigerian athletes while acknowledging the impactful contributions of current and past sporting heroes.
The awards ceremony will feature a star-studded lineup, including football luminaries like Victor Osimhen and Leon Balogun, who have confirmed their attendance. Adding further prestige to the event, legendary footballer Nwankwo Kanu will be present to receive a NUKSA Legendary Award, joining an esteemed group of 19 other iconic figures inducted into the Hall of Fame. This prestigious group includes footballing greats like Jay-Jay Okocha, Eniola Aluko, Joseph Yobo, John Mikel Obi, and Daniel Amokachi, representing a celebration of Nigeria’s rich footballing heritage.
Public participation is a key element of the NUKSA awards, with voting open for 14 categories on the official website. These categories encompass some of the most coveted awards, including Best Male Striker, Midfielder, and Goalkeeper, as well as Female Athlete of the Year, Rising Star, and MVP Awards. The nominees represent a diverse range of talent, featuring prominent names like Cyriel Dessers, Tammy Abraham, and Taiwo Awoniyi vying for the Best Male Striker award, while Eberechi Eze, Alex Iwobi, and Wilfred Ndidi compete for Best Male Midfielder. The Female Athlete of the Year category shines a spotlight on the achievements of Elizabeth Oshoba, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Rinsola Babajide, while rising stars Ethan Nwaneri and Michael Olise also receive recognition, highlighting the depth and breadth of Nigerian sporting talent.
Beyond the publicly voted categories, NUKSA also features a series of closed categories recognizing exceptional contributions. Victor Osimhen will receive The Naija Spirit Award, embodying the resilience and determination associated with Nigerian athletes. Anthony Joshua will be honored as the Amazing UK Boxer of Nigerian Descent, while Bukayo Saka and Asisat Oshoala will receive the NUKSA Male and Female MVP awards, respectively, acknowledging their outstanding performances on the field. Southampton FC will also be recognized for its commitment to grassroots football development with the Best Community Sports Development Programme award, underscoring the importance of community engagement in nurturing young talent.
The NUKSA awards extend beyond sporting achievements, recognizing significant contributions to philanthropy and humanitarian work. Ten awards will be presented to foundations making a tangible difference in communities, including Project 17 (Alex Iwobi), The Pearl Fund (Maro Itoje), Bukayo Saka & BigShoe Initiative, Troost-Ekong Foundation, and Kiddwaya Foundation. This recognition highlights the commitment of Nigerian athletes to giving back and using their platform to create positive social impact. Furthermore, eleven prominent Nigerian voices in UK media will be celebrated for their contributions to sports journalism and broadcasting, including Juliana Olayinka (Channels TV), Damian Johnson (BBC Sport), and Anita Nneka Jones (Sky Sports), recognizing the vital role media plays in showcasing Nigerian sporting talent.
The awards ceremony will also extend special recognition to over 60 individuals making significant contributions in social impact, community development, and socio-cultural influence. This diverse group includes prominent figures like Davido, Don Jazzy, and Funke Akindele, demonstrating the wide-ranging impact of Nigerians across various fields. Lifetime honors will be bestowed upon Dr. Ademola Are for Lifetime Achievement in Sports Development, Tunde Karim for Legacy in Sports & Community Development, and Adebayo Karim for Youth Inspiration & Legacy Impact, acknowledging long-standing contributions to the growth and development of Nigerian sports. The ICON/VVIP category will honor 10 prominent leaders, including Governor Douye Diri (Bayelsa State), Governor Ademola Adeleke (Osun State), and Ambassador Mohammed Maina Maidugu (Nigeria High Commission, UK), signifying the importance of leadership and political support in fostering sporting excellence. The presence of state governors, high-level diplomats, and government officials from both Nigeria and the UK underscores the significance of the event and its potential to strengthen bilateral relations.
Crucially, all proceeds from the NUKSA awards will be channeled towards grassroots sports initiatives and mentorship programs for young athletes. This commitment to investing in the future of Nigerian sport ensures that the awards ceremony is not just a celebratory event, but also a catalyst for sustainable development and the nurturing of the next generation of sporting stars. The NUKSA awards represent a powerful platform for showcasing Nigerian talent, celebrating achievement, and inspiring future generations to pursue their sporting dreams.
