Ademola Lookman was recently honored as African Footballer of the Year 2024 and paid an important visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as CAF Player of the Year Award was presented as an act of national pride and appreciation.
Start at Abuja’s Presidential Villa where Lookman was met by President Tinubu along with government officials and dignitaries, where Lookman made history by becoming the first Nigerian winner since nearly 20 years. Lookman thanked President Tinubu, his fellow officials, citizens as well as every Nigerian for supporting him throughout his journey; acknowledging how it wasn’t solely personal but shared among every individual who has believed in Nigeria’s football talent.
President Tinubu offered his congratulations and endorsement for Lookman’s outstanding performances, particularly those seen during European football and Italian club performances. Tinubu described Lookman as being “an embodiment of excellence, perseverance and dedication towards greatness” as well as encouraging Nigerian youths to deem him as role model who represents hard work and discipline.
After his meeting in Abuja, Lookman headed onward to Lagos where he was received with great warmth by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the Lagos State Government House. Governor Sanwo-Olu lauded Lookman’s discipline and humility while hailing him for carrying Nigeria’s banner high worldwide.
Sanwo-Olu noted that Lookman’s recognition serves as an indicator that Nigeria is rich in talented young people who, when given support and given opportunities, can compete and flourish internationally. He assured Lookman that Lagos State remains committed to investing in grassroots sports programs while offering platforms to emerging athletes that allow them to thrive.
Lookman made time during his Lagos visit for young footballers and shared parts of his journey from playing locally in local communities through England-based academies before making waves internationally and in Europe. He encouraged them to follow their passion.
Lookman made headlines recently after leading his club to victory in an important European title tournament and scoring an extraordinary hat-trick during a continental final – cementing his legacy and earning widespread acclaim among fans, analysts, and fellow players alike – earning CAF recognition which marked an unforgettable moment of pride for Nigeria as a whole.
As his visits concluded, Lookman assured that he would represent Nigeria with pride on and off the pitch. He expressed hope that his victory might open more opportunities for other Nigerian players while inspiring the next generation of sports stars.
