Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare has expressed his delight after winning the prestigious Ebony Shoe Award, which recognizes the best African player in the Belgian Pro League each season.

The 24-year-old KRC Genk forward received the coveted individual accolade at an elaborate ceremony held in Brussels on Monday night, joining an elite group of Nigerian players who have previously claimed the award.

Arokodare has enjoyed an exceptional 2024/2025 campaign, netting 22 goals and providing seven assists for his club. His outstanding performances saw him beat four other contenders for the award, including compatriot Raphael Onyedika, Noah Sidiki, Promise David, and Zakaria El Ouahdi.

"Yes, this is definitely my biggest prize so far. Although I hope that even bigger prizes are coming," Arokodare told Sporza after receiving the award. "I want to keep going up and that can be in any competition. If I keep working hard, I will get the chances I deserve. But I am happy that my name is in the history books."

With this achievement, Arokodare becomes the sixth Nigerian to win the Ebony Shoe Award, following in the footsteps of legendary compatriots Daniel Amokachi, Victor Ikpeba, Celestine Babayaro, Godwin Okpara, and most recently, Paul Onuachu.

The striker's impressive form has reportedly attracted interest from several European clubs, including Bayern Munich, Newcastle United, and Borussia Dortmund, potentially setting the stage for a high-profile transfer in the coming months.

Arokodare's recognition comes as a significant boost for Nigerian football, highlighting the continued excellence of the country's players in European leagues.