Two Nigerian players were honoured at Hull City's 2025–2026 Player of the Year awards, with Calvin Okeke and David Akintola both receiving individual accolades. 

Second-year scholar Calvin Okike was named Frank Donoghue Academy Player of the Year.

The defender spent the majority of the campaign with the U21s and also played a key role in helping the U18s reach the national play-offs of the Professional Development League for the first time in their history.

Okike was named in the matchday squad for the Championship clash with Norwich City in November 2025, but was an unused substitute.

In search of first team opportunities, the left back was loaned out to National League side Hartlepool United on a one-month work experience loan in February 2026.

He joined the Tigers at the beginning of the 2024-2025 season following his release from Sunderland.

Akintola received the Community Award for his brilliant work at fan events and the Tigers Trust. 

A highlight was the winger participating in the Tigers Trust’s Disability Walking Football session as part of National Inclusion Week.

Akintola featured in 20 Championship matches this season, scoring once and providing two assists.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel