Ademola Lookman.

*Also, President Praises Nnadozie, Super Falcons

Ademola Lookman ,Nigerian football star, was on Monday, 16 December crowned 2024  African Player of the Year.

FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, (assisted by his CAF counterpart, Patrice Motsepe) said Lookman advised youths not to be deterred by failures.

He advised youths to learn to turn failures into strength and triumph.

“Four years ago, I have some of the worst moments of my football but fast forward four years today, I’m crowned as the best footballer in Africa,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles forward on winning the 2024 CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year.

President Tinubu also hails Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie for clinching the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award and the Super Falcons for being named the Women’s National Team of the Year.

The awards were announced Monday night at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco.

Ademola Lookman when he received the award in Morocco

The President joins millions of Nigerians in celebrating these athletes, describing them as worthy ambassadors for showcasing their talent and bringing honour to the country on the continental and world stage.

The President believes that this recognition by Africa’s highest football authority will inspire other upcoming athletes to remain steadfast in pursuing their dreams.

He affirms that their determination, discipline and confidence underscore the administration’s resolve to build a better Nigeria where everyone thrives and succeeds.

‘‘These athletes embody the essential Nigerian Spirit. They signpost the best in us as a nation. Let no one ever write us off. I am incredibly proud of them.

‘‘Thank you for making Nigeria proud 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 said

Lookman’s three goals and two assists, as thegazellenews reported, helped Nigeria reach the Africa Cup of Nations final, and he also scored a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa Cup final, leading Atalanta FC to victory over Bayer Leverkusen.

This season, Lookman has notched 11 goals and five assists in 18 appearances in all competitions for Atalanta, including a goal against record winners Real Madrid FC in the UEFA Champions League.

Nigeria would surpass its current tally of five winners, including Rashidi Yekini (1993), Emmanuel Amuneke (1994), Nwankwo Kanu (1996 and 1999), Victor Ikpeba (1997), and Victor Osimhen (2023).

Ademola Lookman would take over the mantle from Osimhen as the latest Nigerian winner.

Last year, Nigerians  Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala claimed the men’s and women’s top prizes, respectively. This year, Lookman faces stiff competition from South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, Cote d’Ivoire’s Simon Adingra, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, and Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi. Despite the tough lineup, Lookman was heavily favored to succeed Osimhen as the best footballer on the continent, thanks to his remarkable achievements.

The 27-year-old was also the only African player shortlisted for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, where he finished in an impressive 14th place.