Nigeria has produced some of the most lethal attacking talents in Africa Cup of Nations history. From the legendary Rashidi Yekini to the modern-day stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, Super Eagles forwards have consistently shaped the narrative of Africa’s premier football tournament.

With Osimhen and Lookman each scoring at least three goals at AFCON 2025, e-Complete Sports’ Dare Esan highlights the Nigerian players who have scored five or more goals at the AFCON, etching their names into continental folklore.

Rashidi Yekini – 13 Goals

The late Rashidi Yekini remains Nigeria’s most prolific AFCON scorer, netting 13 goals in 24 matches across five tournaments. A two-time Golden Boot winner (1992, 1994), Yekini spearheaded Nigeria’s 1994 title triumph and ranks third on the all-time AFCON scorers list behind Samuel Eto’o and Laurent Pokou. His power, composure, and predatory instincts made him a true national icon.

Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha – 7 Goals

Renowned for his flair and creativity, Jay-Jay Okocha also delivered goals when it mattered most. He scored seven goals in 22 AFCON appearances, with four coming at Tunisia 2004. Okocha’s blend of artistry and end product cemented his place among Nigeria’s most adored footballers.

Ademola Lookman – 6 Goals

Ademola Lookman has rapidly climbed Nigeria’s AFCON scoring ranks. After scoring three goals in his debut tournament, he doubled his tally to six within just two editions. The Atalanta forward’s pace, movement, and clinical finishing have made him a major threat, with AFCON 2025 still offering room for more milestones.

Segun Odegbami – 6 Goals

Segun “Mathematical” Odegbami scored six goals in only 10 AFCON matches, including three during Nigeria’s historic 1980 triumph on home soil. A two-time Golden Boot winner (1978, 1980), Odegbami’s goals and leadership inspired Nigeria’s first continental success.

Julius Aghahowa – 6 Goals

Famed for his somersault celebrations, Julius Aghahowa delivered six goals in 15 AFCON appearances. His brace against Senegal in 2000 announced his arrival on the big stage, with his speed and sharp finishing tormenting defenders in the early 2000s.

Victor Osimhen – 5 Goals

Victor Osimhen has already scored five goals in 13 AFCON matches, including four at the ongoing 2025 tournament. Known for his relentless pressing, aerial dominance, and lethal finishing, the 27-year-old Napoli striker is well-positioned to climb Nigeria’s all-time AFCON scoring chart.

Peter Odemwingie – 5 Goals

Peter Odemwingie netted five goals in 16 AFCON appearances, with three coming in his debut tournament in 2004. His brace against South Africa in Tunisia remains one of Nigeria’s standout performances, highlighting his versatility and attacking intelligence.

Odion Ighalo – 5 Goals

Odion Ighalo’s AFCON journey was brief but remarkable. At Egypt 2019, he scored five goals in just seven matches, equalling Yekini’s single-tournament record. Though Nigeria fell short of the title, Ighalo’s ruthless finishing left a lasting impression.

Muda Lawal – 5 Goals

One of Nigeria’s greatest midfielders, Muda Lawal scored five goals in 22 AFCON appearances. He was pivotal in the 1980 final victory over Algeria, combining creativity, composure, and leadership to anchor the Green Eagles’ golden era.

William Troost-Ekong – 5 Goals

Retiring just before AFCON 2025, William Troost-Ekong left as Nigeria’s highest-scoring defender in AFCON history with five goals. His knack for crucial strikes and defensive leadership also earned him the distinction of being the tournament’s highest-scoring defender overall.