My CAF nod proves Nigerian talent belongs among Africa’s best — Bameyi

Flying Eagles captain Daniel Bameyi says his CAF Young Player of the Year nomination humbled him and reinforced his desire to work even harder. He speaks on the journey behind the recognition in this interview with OLAMIDE ABE.

Congratulations on your nomination. What was your reaction when you heard your name listed among Africa’s top young players?

I feel truly honoured and deeply grateful for this nomination. Hearing my name mentioned among the top young players in Africa was a very emotional and fulfilling moment for me. It means a great deal to be recognised at such a high level, and it reminds me of the journey, the sacrifices, and the many people who have supported me throughout my career. I am thankful to everyone who has believed in me, encouraged me, and helped me become the player I am today. This recognition motivates me to keep pushing myself and to remain committed to my goals.

What does this recognition from CAF mean to you personally and professionally?

This recognition from CAF carries significant meaning for me on a personal and professional level. Personally, I am humbled and very grateful that my efforts and performances have been noticed. It gives me confidence and reassures me that the work I put in every day is making a difference. Professionally, it serves as a strong encouragement to stay focused, maintain discipline, and continue improving in every aspect of my game. It pushes me to contribute even more to African football and to represent both my club and my country with even greater pride and commitment. It inspires me to remain dedicated and to keep striving for the highest standards.

Looking back at your year with the national team, what moments do you think earned you this nomination?

It is difficult to point to just one moment because every achievement was the result of collective effort and teamwork. Throughout the year, we faced important matches where we had to give everything for the national team, and I believe those performances showed my commitment and consistency. The way we approached crucial games, the unity in the squad, and the determination to always represent Nigeria with pride all played a part. I think the nomination reflects not only my individual contribution but also the strength and support of the team around me.

You were listed alongside players from major clubs like Ajax and QPR. How does it feel to be recognised on the same level?

Being recognised on the same level as players from well-known clubs such as Ajax and QPR is both humbling and very motivating. It shows me that football rewards hard work, passion, and consistency, regardless of where a player is based. It reminds me that the most important thing is the commitment you bring to your game every single day. It encourages me to dream bigger, stay ambitious, and believe even more in what I can achieve. It also proves that African football has immense quality and that players from different backgrounds can stand out when they put in the effort. For me, it is a strong push to keep working harder and to continue representing my country with pride.

You did not win the award, but what does the nomination mean for your career and for Nigerian football?

Being nominated for the CAF award, whether I won or not, is a major milestone in my career. It shows that I am on the right path and encourages me to aim even higher. It gives me confidence and pushes me to continue improving. For Nigerian football, the nomination demonstrates that our young players are capable of competing with the best on the continent and receiving recognition at the highest levels. It reflects the talent within our system and highlights the progress we are making. I see it as a victory for both myself and the entire nation because it brings pride to Nigeria and opens doors for more young players to be noticed.

Just before the World Cup, you not only led the country to a bronze medal but were also included in the tournament’s Best XI. How do you feel about that?

I feel extremely proud and grateful. Going into a major tournament like the AFCON, being recognised as one of the standout players and then named in the Best XI is a very special honour for me. It means a great deal because achievements like this can have a positive impact on my career and open new opportunities.

However, I always say it was not about me alone. The real champions are my brothers, my teammates. They gave everything throughout the competition and deserve the highest praise. The coaches and the backroom staff also played an important role, pushing us, guiding us and making sure we were ready for every challenge. Whatever we achieved in that tournament was a collective effort, and I appreciate every single person involved. Looking ahead, my ambition is to continue growing, to play for top clubs and, most importantly, to represent and defend this great nation at senior level with the Super Eagles. There is no better feeling than fighting for your country at any stage. I believe there is much more to come, and I trust that, by the grace of God, my career will continue on a successful path.

Nigeria has a strong history of producing top young talents. How proud are you to continue that legacy?

It is a great honour to continue Nigeria’s tradition of developing exceptional young talents. When I think about the legends and outstanding players who have come through our system, it gives me both pride and responsibility. Knowing that I am part of that lineage, motivates me to keep improving and to give my best at all times. I hope that through my journey, I can inspire young players in the same way the previous generation inspired me. It is a privilege to be part of a football nation with such a rich history of talent.

What message do you have for young Nigerian players hoping to follow in your footsteps?

To every young Nigerian player with dreams, I want to say that believing in yourself is very important. Work hard even when you feel unnoticed, stay disciplined, and always remain open to learning from coaches and teammates. Football is a journey with challenges, but if you stay consistent and put in your best every day, your effort will eventually speak for you. Stay patient, stay humble, and make sure you use every opportunity you get to show your ability. The path may not always be smooth, but with dedication, focus, and faith, your time will surely come.

What are your personal goals for the next year, both at club and national team levels?

My main goal for the coming year is growth in every area of my career. I want to keep developing, learning, and working hard so that I can reach a higher level. At the club level, I hope to play an even more important role in the team and contribute consistently throughout the season. With the national team, my aim is to continue representing Nigeria with pride and determination whenever I am called upon. I also want to earn more opportunities, help the team achieve strong performances, and contribute to taking Nigerian football to greater heights.