Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman paid a historic visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his Lagos residence on Friday, showcasing his recently won 2024 CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year award. The visit, which took place at 10:24 PM WAT, was a celebration of Lookman’s remarkable achievements on the global stage, cementing his status as one of Nigeria’s brightest sporting talents. Accompanied by Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Lookman’s visit underscored the unity between sports and national leadership in fostering Nigeria’s growing influence in global football.
The 27-year-old Atalanta star has had a meteoric rise in 2024, captivating football fans worldwide with his skill, resilience, and game-changing performances. Lookman’s crowning moment came at the CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco, where he was named the Men’s African Footballer of the Year, beating out stiff competition from some of the continent’s finest talents. This prestigious accolade, voted on by a panel of football experts, journalists, and national team coaches, recognized Lookman’s exceptional contributions both at the club and international levels. His triumph marked a significant milestone for Nigerian football, as he became the sixth Nigerian to claim the coveted title, following in the footsteps of legends like Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, Nwankwo Kanu, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Victor Osimhen.
President Tinubu, a known advocate for youth empowerment and sports development, warmly received Lookman and commended his dedication, discipline, and talent. In a statement released after the visit, Tinubu described Lookman as a “shining example of Nigerian excellence,” emphasizing the importance of sports as a unifying force and a platform for showcasing the country’s potential. “Ademola’s achievements inspire millions of young Nigerians to dream big and pursue excellence,” Tinubu said, pledging continued government support for sports development to nurture more talents like Lookman.
Lookman’s journey to this historic moment is a story of perseverance and brilliance. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Lookman’s footballing career began in the youth academies of Charlton Athletic and Everton before he carved out a niche in Europe’s competitive leagues. His move to Atalanta in 2022 proved to be a turning point, as he flourished under coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s attacking system. The pinnacle of his club career came in May 2024, when Lookman etched his name in football history by scoring a sensational hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Europa League final. This performance not only secured Atalanta’s first-ever European title but also made Lookman the first African player to score a hat-trick in a major European final.
On the international stage, Lookman has been equally impactful. Since switching allegiance to represent Nigeria in 2022, he has become a key figure for the Super Eagles. His standout performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast were instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the final, where they finished as runners-up. Lookman’s three goals and one assist during the tournament showcased his ability to deliver under pressure, earning him a place in the hearts of Nigerian football fans. His versatility, work rate, and flair on the wing have made him a vital asset for both club and country.
During the visit, Lookman expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the warm reception and reiterated his commitment to representing Nigeria with pride. “It’s an honor to be here and to share this moment with Mr. President,” Lookman said. “This award belongs to my family, my teammates, my coaches, and every Nigerian who has supported me. I’m motivated to keep pushing and to bring more glory to Nigeria.” He also took the opportunity to present the CAF award to Tinubu, a symbolic gesture that highlighted the intersection of sports and national pride.
Shehu Dikko, who accompanied Lookman, praised the player’s humility and work ethic, noting that his success is a testament to the potential of Nigerian youth when given the right opportunities. Dikko also highlighted ongoing efforts by the National Sports Commission to develop grassroots sports programs, ensuring that more talents like Lookman can emerge. “Ademola’s story shows what is possible when talent meets opportunity. We are committed to creating more pathways for young Nigerians to excel in sports,” Dikko stated.
The visit sparked widespread excitement on social media, with Nigerians taking to platforms like X to celebrate Lookman’s achievements and the government’s recognition of his efforts. Fans lauded his journey from grassroots football in London to global stardom, with many calling for increased investment in sports infrastructure to nurture the next generation of Nigerian athletes. Posts on X described Lookman as a “national treasure” and a “role model for the youth,” reflecting the widespread admiration for his accomplishments.
Lookman’s visit to President Tinubu is not just a personal milestone but a moment of collective pride for Nigeria. His rise from a young talent in London to a continental icon serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country. As Nigeria continues to produce world-class talents, Lookman’s story underscores the importance of resilience, hard work, and national support in achieving greatness.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on the horizon and Atalanta gearing up for another competitive season in Serie A, all eyes will be on Lookman to continue his remarkable form. For now, his visit to President Tinubu stands as a powerful reminder of the unifying power of sports and the boundless potential of Nigeria’s youth.
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