President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman for winning the 2024 CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year.
He also praised Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who clinched the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, and the Super Falcons for being named the Women’s National Team of the Year.
The awards were announced on Monday night at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco.
Lookman’s victory saw him edge out Achraf Hakimi, Ronwen Williams, Serhou Guirassy and Simon Adingra.
He succeeds fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen, who won the award last year.
President Tinubu expressed pride in these athletes, describing them as outstanding ambassadors who bring honor to Nigeria on both the continental and world stages.
In his statement signed by his Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu emphasised that the recognition by Africa’s premier football body would inspire other athletes to pursue their dreams with determination.
He noted that the athletes’ achievements reflect the spirit of discipline and confidence that his administration seeks to promote in building a thriving Nigeria.
“These athletes embody the essential Nigerian Spirit. They signpost the best in us as a nation,” Tinubu said.
“Thank you for making Nigeria proud and keeping our flag flying. You will win more in the future.”
Lookman’s achievements during the 2023-24 season were nothing short of spectacular. He scored a hat-trick in the Europa League final, securing Atalanta’s first-ever European trophy and just their second major title in 117 years.
Additionally, Lookman netted three goals as Nigeria reached the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, where they were narrowly defeated 2-1 by the Ivory Coast, with a late goal from Sebastian Haller.
In total, Lookman scored 17 goals and registered 10 assists in 45 games across all competitions for Atalanta.
Lookman’s current form remains impressive, with 11 goals in 19 matches this season as his team leads Serie A, two points ahead of Napoli.
