The wait is over, and Nigeria has another king on Africa’s football throne. Ademola Lookman has been named the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year, adding his name to a prestigious list of Nigerian icons who have claimed the coveted title.
The 27-year-old Atalanta forward becomes the seventh Nigerian to claim this prestigious title, following in the footsteps of compatriot Victor Osimhen, last year’s winner.
The announcement came during a glittering ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday night.
Lookman’s remarkable year saw him score 22 goals across competitions, including a stunning hat trick in the Europa League final, which secured Atalanta’s first-ever continental trophy.
He also played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey to the AFCON final earlier this year with three goals and one assist.
The final shortlist featured top African talents, including Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast/Brighton), Serhou Guirassy (Guinea/Borussia Dortmund), Achraf Hakimi (Morocco/PSG), and Ronwen Williams (South Africa/Mamelodi Sundowns). However, Lookman emerged as the standout performer, cementing his status as Africa’s best.
In October, Lookman was also ranked 14th in the prestigious Ballon d’Or standings, a testament to his exceptional form over the past year.
His stellar performances have continued into the current season, with eleven goals and five assists helping Atalanta soar to the top.
It was a memorable night for Nigerian football, as the Super Falcons were crowned Women’s National Team of the Year following their impressive showing at the Paris Olympics.
Chiamaka Nnadozie added another feather to her cap by retaining the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
The Paris FC star expressed her gratitude to the CAF president, the Nigeria Football Federation, her club, and her adopted father, Kazeem Eletu, for their unwavering support in her journey to the top.
This double recognition highlights Nigeria’s continued dominance on the African football stage and caps off an unforgettable night for the nation.
