Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has been named the 2024 African Footballer of the Year by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Lookman, who plays for Atalanta in Italy’s Serie A, had an outstanding year, highlighted by a hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final victory.He also played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, contributing three goals during the tournament.
The 27-year-old forward scored 17 goals for Atalanta last season and has already netted 11 times in the current campaign.Upon receiving the award, Lookman expressed his pride and encouraged others to persevere in pursuing their dreams, regardless of obstacles.
Lookman becomes the seventh Nigerian to receive this prestigious honor, following in the footsteps of players like Rashidi Yekini, Nwankwo Kanu and Emmanuel Amunike.He succeeds fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen, who won the award in 2023.
In the women’s category, Zambia’s Barbra Banda was named African Women’s Player of the Year, recognized for her contributions to Orlando Pride’s NWSL Championship victory.
This accolade underscores Lookman’s significant impact on both club and country, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s premier football talents.
