Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has received a prestigious African Illustrious Award
from My Media Africa in recognition of his historic achievement as the first Nigerian to win the revamped FIFA Club World Cup.
The award, presented at the organisation’s office in Lekki, Lagos on Wednesday, celebrates Adarabioyo’s outstanding contribution to Chelsea’s triumph in the 2025 tournament.
The award of excellence and special recognition marks a milestone in the 26-year-old’s career and a proud moment for Nigeria and Africa.
Adarabioyo, who joined Chelsea from Fulham earlier this year, featured in four matches during the tournament and scored one goal, a key performance that helped secure Chelsea’s global title.
His participation in the victory etched his name into football history as the first Nigerian to claim the FIFA Club World Cup under its new format.
“I am very proud to have received this award and it will go down in history,” Adarabioyo said at the presentation.
“I’m happy that I played a great part in winning the trophy, and I will strive to do more in writing my name in illustrious ways to attract an award like this.”
Born in Manchester to Nigerian parents, Adarabioyo is deeply connected to his Nigerian roots and has expressed interest in representing the Super Eagles at senior level.
He began his football journey with Manchester City, rising through their academy before playing for West Brom, Blackburn Rovers and Fulham and now securing a prominent role at Chelsea.
The African Illustrious Award is powered by My Media Africa, a pan-African media platform dedicated to celebrating Africans making global impact in sports, business, innovation, leadership, technology and the arts.
According to organisers, the award symbolises what is possible when talent, discipline and opportunity converge.
“Tosin’s journey is a beacon of hope and a powerful message to young Africans everywhere, that greatness is possible and success knows no boundaries,” said a representative from My Media Africa.
Adarabioyo is currently spending his off-season break in Lagos, where he has been engaging with fans and participating in community-focused initiatives.
