President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman for winning the 2024 CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year.
In a statement sent by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President praised Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie for winning the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year title, as well as the Super Falcons for being named the Women’s National Team of the Year.
The winners were announced on Monday night at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech.
”These athletes exemplify the true Nigerian spirit. They represent our best qualities as a nation. Nobody should ever write us off. “I am so proud of them.”Thank you for bringing Nigeria pride and keeping our flag flying.
“Thank you for winning medals for Nigeria both at home and abroad. You will win more in the future,” the president is quoted as saying.
The Super Eagles front defeated South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, Cote d’Ivoire’s Simon Adingra, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, and Guinea striker Serhou Guirassy to claim the award.
His win ensures that the prize will remain in Nigeria, where it was won by teammate Victor Osimhen last year.
The Atalanta of Italy player, who personally collected the prize in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday night, characterised it as “incredible” and “extremely proud of.”
The President joined millions of Nigerians in congratulating these athletes, hailing them as deserving ambassadors for demonstrating their talent and bringing respect to the country on the continental and global stages.
The President hoped that this recognition from Africa’s highest football authority would motivate other aspiring athletes to persevere in following their aspirations.
He emphasised that their tenacity, discipline, and confidence reflect the administration’s commitment to creating a better Nigeria in which everyone thrives and succeeds.
The award recognises Lookman’s great performances for both the Super Eagles and his club, Atalanta. He was in brilliant form as Nigeria reached the Africa Cup of Nations final in Ivory Coast this year, netting some crucial goals along the way.
Lookman’s resourcefulness helped Atalanta win its first European trophy in 104 years in May. In the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, the Nigerian scored three goals to help his club win the cherished title.
His effort in the Europa League final is widely regarded as one of the best in European competition.
Lookman was formerly placed 14th in the 2023 Ballon d’Or, the world’s most coveted football award. In 2024, he was the sole African player nominated for awards.
