Super Falcons interim head coach Justine Madugu says his 2025 Ballon d’Or nomination signifies not only a personal achievement but also a victory for the entire continent.

Shortlisted for Women’s Team Coach of the Year alongside Sarina Wiegman, Emma Hayes, Bev Priestman, and Sonia Bompastor, the 61-year-old made history as the first African ever nominated for the award.

Madugu rose to prominence after leading Nigeria, in an acting capacity, to a record-extending 10th title at the recent 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Speaking for the first time since his nomination, Madugu acknowledged the significance of the recognition and vowed to do whatever it takes to live up to the new heights set.

"It's a great honour not only for me as a person but for our dear country because I don't know if any other African coach have ever been nominated at that level at this category," he told Flashscore.

"This is the first time an African has received an award of such magnitude and recognition, making it more than just a Nigerian achievement.

At the WAFCON, Nigeria won five of their six matches on the way to dethroning South Africa, with their only slip-up being a draw against Algeria in their final group game in Casablanca. 

The Super Falcons' most remarkable performance came in the final, where they overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat hosts Morocco and claim the title.

Madugu, who previously managed Nigeria’s U-17 and U-20 women’s teams, also urged greater support for indigenous coaches, stressing that the gap between Africa and more advanced nations in women’s football and sports is narrowing rapidly.

"I want other African nations to believe in themselves just as the world believes in us," he added.

"We need to call on our people to give us the support we deserve, because with that backing, the sky will only be our starting point. 

"I truly believe that with the right support, we can achieve remarkable feats that will set us apart on the global stage, standing strong against coaches and teams from all continents.

Alongside coach Madugu, other African nominees include Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, Mohamed Salah, Achraf Hakimi, Barbara Banda, Serhou Guirassy, Yassine Bounou, and Temwa Chawinga, each recognised in various categories.

The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony is set for September 22 at the prestigious Theatre du Chatelet in Paris.