Taiwo Awoniyi has won the Beyond the Pitch Award at the 2026 Best of Africa Awards, recognising his charitable work and contributions to grassroots football development in Nigeria.
The Super Eagles striker received the honour at a ceremony in London on Monday, October 26.
The award, presented in partnership with the Professional Footballer's Association (PFA), recognises footballers whose contributions extend beyond their performances on the pitch.
For Awoniyi, the recognition reflects his efforts to create better opportunities for young footballers, particularly in Kwara State, where he grew up before beginning his professional career in Europe.
How Taiwo Awoniyi Supports Grassroots Football
One of Awoniyi's major projects is the Kwara Kiddies League, a youth football competition that provides young players with opportunities to develop their skills and compete.
He initially supported the league as a sponsor in 2024 before becoming its majority shareholder in July 2025.
He also became chairman, deepening his involvement in the competition's development.
The league's 2026 season involved 14 academies and more than 500 young players, and the activities provide a platform for children to gain competitive experience and potentially attract scout's attention.
Awoniyi's support has also included practical assistance for the youngsters.
In October 2026, his foundation donated 350 pairs of football boots to players participating in the competition.
The foundation has also supported the league with playing kits, meals and cash rewards for outstanding players.
These contributions help provide young footballers with some of the equipment and support they need to continue developing their abilities.
Why the Award Matters
Developing young footballers requires more than identifying talented players.
Access to equipment, organised competitions, coaching and opportunities to be noticed by scouts can all influence how far a young player progresses.
Awoniyi's involvement in the Kwara Kiddies League addresses some of these needs by supporting a competition where young players can train and gain experience.
His latest award recognises this work beyond his professional career. It also highlights how footballers can use their resources and public profiles to support the communities that helped shape their journeys.
Michelle Agyemang Also Wins the Award
Awoniyi was not the only footballer recognised in the Beyond the Pitch category. England international Michelle Agyemang won the women's award at the 2026 ceremony.
The Best of Africa Awards celebrates people of African heritage and recognises achievements across sport, entertainment, business and other fields, with an emphasis on philanthropy and community contributions.
For Awoniyi, the honour adds another achievement to his career, this time for work that reaches beyond goals, appearances and results.