President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman on being named the 2024 CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year.
In a statement released by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the President also commended Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie for winning the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award and celebrated the Super Falcons for being recognized as the Women’s National Team of the Year.
The awards were presented on Monday night at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco.
‘‘These athletes embody the essential Nigerian Spirit. They signpost the best in us as a nation. Let no one ever write us off. I am incredibly proud of them.
‘‘Thank you for making Nigeria proud and keeping our flag flying.
‘‘Thank you for winning medals for Nigeria both at home and abroad. You will win more in the future,’’ the President was quoted as saying.
Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman triumphed over South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, Côte d’Ivoire’s Simon Adingra, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, and Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy to claim the prestigious CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year award.
His victory ensures the award remains in Nigeria, following teammate Victor Osimhen’s win last year.
The Atalanta star, who personally received the award on Monday night in Marrakech, Morocco, described the achievement as “incredible” and expressed his pride in the recognition.
President Bola Tinubu joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating Lookman and other honorees, praising them as exemplary ambassadors who have showcased their talent while bringing glory to the nation on both continental and global stages.
The President expressed hope that such recognition from Africa’s highest football authority would motivate aspiring athletes to remain committed to their dreams. He emphasized that Lookman’s determination, discipline, and confidence reflect the administration’s vision of building a nation where every individual can thrive and succeed.
Lookman’s award highlights his exceptional performances for the Super Eagles and his club, Atalanta. He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, scoring crucial goals along the way.
At the club level, Lookman’s brilliance led Atalanta to its first European trophy in the club’s 104-year history. His hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen secured the coveted title for the Italian side.
The Nigerian forward’s performance in the Europa League final is widely regarded as one of the finest individual displays in a European final.
In addition to his CAF accolade, Lookman was ranked 14th in the 2023 Ballon d’Or awards, the highest honor in football, making him the only African player to feature on the 2024 nomination list.