Reigning CAF African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman has described winning the award as a “blessing” after a remarkable season with Atalanta and the Nigerian national team.
The 27-year-old forward received the prestigious honor on Monday during a ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco.
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, he 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.
His current form remains impressive, with 11 goals in 19 matches this season as his team leads Serie A, two points ahead of Napoli.
“This award is a blessing,” Lookman said as he received the trophy.
“To be recognised as the best player in Africa is something incredible. Four years ago, my career felt like it was at a low, and fast forward four years now, and I’m here as the best player in Africa.
“I want to say to all the young children and people watching this, don’t let your failures weigh you down that they break your wings or stop your dreams.
“But infact, turn your pain into power and continue to fly.”
Lookman’s victory saw him edge out other nominees, including Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy, and Brighton’s Simon Adingra. He succeeds fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen, who won the award last year.
Meanwhile, Zambia’s Barbra Banda was honored with the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award after an outstanding season with the Orlando Pride, where she scored the decisive goal in the NWSL Championship final against Washington Spirit.
Banda’s victory ends Asisat Oshoala’s dominant reign, as the former Barcelona star had claimed the award five times in the last six years.
