• Leads Nigeria’s stellar night in Marrakech
• President Tinubu hails Lookman, Nnadozie, Super Falcons on CAF Awards
By Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has been named the 2024 CAF Player of the Year at a glittering awards ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday. The Atalanta FC star and Super Eagles talisman achieved this remarkable feat less than three years after earning his first cap for Nigeria, cementing his place as one of Africa’s finest footballers.
Lookman, 27, edged out strong contenders, including South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, and Cote d’Ivoire’s Simon Adingra, to claim the prestigious honor. His stellar performances in 2024 included leading Atalanta to its first-ever UEFA Europa League title, where he scored a memorable hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. He was also instrumental in Nigeria’s journey to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final earlier this year.
Reacting to Nigeria’s remarkable night, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated the winners, hailing Lookman, Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons as “worthy ambassadors” of the country. In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised the athletes for bringing honour to Nigeria on the continental and global stage.
“These athletes embody the essential Nigerian Spirit. They signpost the best in us as a nation. Let no one ever write us off,” President Tinubu remarked. “I am incredibly proud of them. Thank you for making Nigeria proud and keeping our flag flying. You will win more in the future.”
The President emphasized that the recognition from CAF underscores the determination, discipline, and excellence of Nigerian athletes, inspiring younger generations to pursue their dreams.
An Emotional Acceptance Speech
In an emotional acceptance speech, Lookman reflected on his journey from adversity to triumph.
“This award is a blessing to me, my family, and my nation. To be recognised as the best player in Africa is something incredible, and I am extremely proud,” he said.
Lookman also encouraged young people to persevere through challenges, recalling his struggles four years ago.
“Four years ago, I failed in front of the world. Fast forward to today, I am the best player in Africa. To the young children watching, don’t let your failures weigh you down or break your wings. Turn your pain into power, and continue to fight and fly,” he added.
A Historic Night for Nigeria
Nigeria’s dominance at the 2024 CAF Awards extended beyond Lookman’s victory. Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie retained her title as the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, while the Super Falcons were named Women’s National Team of the Year for the second consecutive year.
President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, received the award on behalf of the Super Falcons and dedicated it to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. He reiterated the NFF’s commitment to supporting women’s football.
Star-Studded Ceremony
The awards night, attended by global football dignitaries including FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe, was a celebration of Africa’s footballing excellence. Nigerian sports icons like Obafemi Martins, Mary Onyali, and Chioma Ajunwa-Oparah added glamour to the event by presenting awards.
Full List of Nigerian Honorees
Men’s Player of the Year: Ademola Lookman
Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Chiamaka Nnadozie
Women’s National Team of the Year: Super Falcons of Nigeria
CAF Best XI: Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen (Men); Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Asisat Oshoala (Women)
A Bright Future for Nigerian Football
Ademola Lookman’s win underscores the growing impact of Nigerian players on the global stage. As he prepares to represent Nigeria in future competitions, including AFCON 2025, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the continent.
For Nigeria, the 2024 CAF Awards reaffirm the nation’s status as a powerhouse in African football, with both male and female athletes continuing to shine brightly.
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