John Mikel Obi, a former captain of the Super Eagles, is a member of the FIFA The Best Award expert panels for 2023.

Former Super Falcons forward Mercy Akide is also a member of the panel.

The 30-man panel that narrowed down the numerous nominees for The Best Awards included Mikel and Akide.

Akide, a retired Super Falcons forward, has her name atop of the list 11 members for the women’s category, while Mikel is among the 11 that shortlisted the nominees for the men’s category.

In the panel is also Didier Drogba of Cote d’Ivoire.