Ademola Lookman Crowned 2024 African Player of the Year: A Moment of Glory for Nigeria
Nigerian and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has been named the 2024 African Player of the Year, sparking a wave of celebrations across the footballing and political spheres. The 27-year-old received the prestigious honor during a star-studded ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday night, solidifying his place among Africa’s elite footballers.
Lookman’s crowning achievement has been widely hailed as a testament to his exceptional performances over the past year. His brilliance at club level with Atalanta, coupled with his pivotal contributions to Nigeria’s campaign in the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), cemented his status as Africa’s best.
The news was met with widespread congratulations from teammates, colleagues, and prominent Nigerian figures.
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong praised Lookman on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “Deserved brother, we are proud of you!”
Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo joined in, calling him “the best player in Africa, well deserved.”
Former Leicester City teammate Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall expressed his pride, noting: “Come a long way, so proud bro. Most humble, hardworking guy.”
The recognition extended beyond the footballing world, with Nigerian politicians celebrating Lookman’s accomplishment as a symbol of the nation’s excellence.
Former presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso lauded the player for his incredible journey. “Lookman had a great performance at the previous AFCON competition and is a reliable player for his team, Atalanta,” he said. Kwankwaso also highlighted the back-to-back victories for Nigeria in the CAF Men’s category, referencing Victor Osimhen’s win last year as evidence of the country’s dominance on the African stage.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar added: “Look no further than Ademola Lookman, African Footballer of the Year 2024. Congratulations.”
A Momentous Year for Nigerian Football
Lookman’s triumph marks a significant milestone for Nigerian football, reinforcing the nation’s reputation as a powerhouse in African sports. His recognition comes alongside that of Chiamaka Nnadozie, who won the award for Best Women’s Goalkeeper, making it a double celebration for Nigeria at the CAF Awards.
Opinion: The Ripple Effect of Excellence
Lookman’s success is more than an individual achievement—it’s a source of inspiration for aspiring footballers across Africa. His journey from grassroots football to continental stardom embodies the values of hard work, resilience, and dedication. It also highlights the importance of nurturing young talent, a responsibility that lies with stakeholders in Nigerian football.
For a second consecutive year, Nigerian players have claimed the highest honors in African football, signaling a golden era for the nation’s sports. This momentum should serve as a clarion call for increased investment in youth development programs, better infrastructure, and strategic planning to maintain the country’s dominance.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria basks in the glory of Lookman’s achievement, the focus now shifts to sustaining this success. With the Super Eagles set to compete in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, expectations are high for Lookman and his teammates to deliver yet another stellar performance.
For Lookman, this award is not the pinnacle but a stepping stone. His journey continues, and his fans eagerly await the next chapter in his already illustrious career.
Ademola Lookman’s rise is a story of hope, determination, and the boundless potential of African football—a shining light for Nigeria and the continent as a whole.
