Africa’s Golden Boy: Ademola Lookman Crowned CAF Men’s Player of the Year, Becomes A RECORD 7th Nigerian To Win The Prestigious Award

Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman has been crowned the 2024 African Men’s Player of the Year, marking a historic achievement for the Nigerian forward after an extraordinary season filled with stunning performances at club and international levels.

The Super Eagles and Atlanta star beat tough competition to claim the continent’s most prestigious individual award. The 5-man shortlist featured strong competition from 2023 AFCON winner Simon Adingra (Côte d’Ivoire), Ronwen Williams (South Africa), Serhou Guirassy (Guinea), and Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), whose season ended with a third consecutive Ligue 1 title at Paris Saint-Germain.

Lookman’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of exceptional. He spearheaded Atlanta’s charge to Europa League glory, netting a memorable hat-trick in the final to secure the trophy.

His contributions throughout the tournament earned him widespread acclaim, with over 20 Man of the Match awards across all competitions.

On the international stage, Lookman dazzled for Nigeria, guiding the Super Eagles to the AFCON final. He delivered when it mattered most, scoring a brace in the Round of 16 and the match-winning goal in the quarterfinals. His consistent brilliance earned him a spot in the AFCON Team of the Tournament.

Lookman’s stellar form saw him become the only African player nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, where he finished in 14th place—a remarkable feat in itself.

He joins the ranks of Nigeria’s footballers who have won the award. Following in the footsteps of players like, Rashidi Yekini (1993), Emmanuel Amunike (1994), Nwankwo Kanu (1996 & 1999), Victor Ikpeba (1997)Victor Osimhen (2023).

This award today is a blessing to me, to my family, to my nation; and to be recognized as the best player in Africa is something incredible and I’m extremely proud of. Just over 4 years ago, I failed in front of the world. Fast forward 4 years, and I’m the best player in Africa. To all the young children and people watching this, don’t let your failures weigh you down that they break your wings; but in fact turn your pain into power, and continue to fly. God bless, Lookman stated.

The 2024 winners were voted for by a panel consisting of CAF’s technical committee, media professionals, head coaches and captains of member associations, and clubs participating in the group stages of club competitions.

This achievement further cements Nigeria’s position as a powerhouse in African football, boasting the most Player of the Year winners (seven) behind only the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (eleven).

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