Created in 1956, the Ballon d’Or is one of the most prestigious individual awards in football. It’s widely considered the highest individual honour in world football.
Naijaonpoint reports that Ballon d’Or means “Golden Ball” in French. It is awarded annually to the best male football player in the world. Since 2018, there’s also a Ballon d’Or Féminin for the best female player.
Royal Rumble Between Ataoja, Oluwo Degenerates, Polarises Osun Indigenes
’55 Days After Swearing In,’ Lagos LCDA Vice Chairman Dies
Dembele, Yamal Leads 2025 Ballon d’Or Race + FULL LIST
Although the award has largely been dominated by Europeans and South Americans, a few Nigerians have broken through, earning nominations and, at times, finishing with remarkable rankings.
Naijaonpoint presents 8 Nigerians who have made the Ballon d’Or Shortlist
1. Finidi George – 1995 (21st place)
2. Daniel Amokachi – 1995 (nominated)
3. Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha – 1995 (nominated)
4. Nwankwo Kanu – 1996 (11th), 1999 (23rd)
5. Ademola Lookman – 2024 (shortlist)
6. Victor Osimhen – 2023 (8th place)
7. Victor Ikpeba – 1997 (32nd place)
8. Sunday Oliseh – 1998 (nominated)
Naijaonpoint