Former Nigeria international, Emmanuel Amuneke believes Ademola Lookman is the favorite to win this year’s African Player of the Year award.

Lookman, who has been in exceptional form for both club and country throughout 2024, is the only Nigerian to be nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or this year.

The 26 year-old winger netted three goals in seven appearances for Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Lookman also played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph, scoring a sensational hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.

He finished the 2023-24 season with an impressive tally of 15 goals for the Italian club.

Speaking to SportsBoom, Amuneke praised Lookman’s progress and tipped him for the CAF Player of the Year award if he maintains his current form.

“He’s in line to be crowned CAF Player of the Year if he continues the way he is playing,” Amuneke said.

“I watched his performance against Rwanda, and it was outstanding. It shows he has consolidated himself in African football.”

Amuneke, who won the African Player of the Year award in 1994, also reflected on Nigeria’s rich history in the competition, noting past winners like Victor Ikpeba and Nwankwo Kanu.

Amuneke won the 1994 African POTY award.

“If a Nigerian wins it again, it would be a joyous moment and a great motivation for our young players,” he added.

Lookman’s form and continued development have raised hopes of him succeeding Victor Osimhen but face strong competition from compatriots Victor Boniface, William Troost-Ekong and Moroccan Ibrahim Diaz.