Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman paid a courtesy visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his residence in Lagos on Friday, proudly presenting his 2024 CAF Footballer of the Year award to the Nigerian leader, MySportDab Reports.
Lookman, who plays his club football for Italian Serie A side Atalanta, was named Africa’s best player in December 2024. The 27-year-old became the second Nigerian in consecutive years to win the prestigious award, following Victor Osimhen’s triumph in 2023.
His visit marks a celebration of personal and national sporting excellence, as the government continues to show support for the achievements of Nigerian athletes on the global stage.
The winger’s recognition came after a stellar campaign across the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons. In 2023/24, Lookman netted 17 goals and provided 11 assists, including a stunning hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen to secure Atalanta’s first-ever European trophy.
He continued his impressive form into the 2024/25 season, scoring 20 goals in all competitions and helping Atalanta finish third in the league.
On the international front, Lookman was a standout performer for Nigeria at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire. He scored three crucial goals en route to the final, where Nigeria finished as runners-up.
His efforts earned him a place in the AFCON Best XI, alongside Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong.
Lookman’s achievements have not only elevated his career but also brought pride to Nigerian football.
His visit to President Tinubu underscores the growing recognition of Nigerian talent globally and the importance of continued governmental support for sports development in the country.
