Super Eagles trio, Mikel Obi, Kelechi Iheanacho and Ahmed Musa are among a 30-man shortlist for the 2016 CAF African Footballer of the Year award.
The annual accolade recognises the best African player considering their contribution for both club and country.
Mikel, 29, who narrowly lost out to Yaya Toure in 2013, is given another shot at Africa’s biggest individual honour.
The midfielder was one of Chelsea’s standout performers last season and was equally impressive as Nigeria won bronze in the football event at last summer’s Olympic in Rio.
Musa on the other hand, was outstanding last term as CSKA Moscow clinched the Russian Premier League.
His 18 goals for the Militarians prompted a record-breaking move to Premier League champions, Leicester City.
Iheanacho’s meteoric rise at Manchester City and exploits with the Super Eagles has also been rewarded.
The three Nigerians will have to overcome the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, André Ayew and Riyad Mahrez to clinch the award.
Others shortlisted include Sadio Mane, Serge Aurrier, Victor Wanyama, Yannick Bolasie and 35-year-old four-time winner, Samuel Eto’o.
The last Nigerian to win the prestigious award was Kanu Nwankwo in 1999.
The award ceremony is slated for January 5 at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.
