Ademola Lookman, the 27-year-old forward representing Nigeria, has been honored as the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year at the prestigious awards ceremony held on December 16, 2024, in Marrakech, Morocco. This accolade arrives after an outstanding season with his club Atalanta, where he made headlines for his impressive performances, particularly during the Europa League final.
Lookman’s remarkable year included scoring a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, leading Atalanta to victory and securing their first-ever European trophy. His prowess on the field contributed significantly to the club’s success and solidified his status as one of the top forwards not just in Italy but across Europe. He also played a pivotal role for the Nigerian national team as they reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scoring three goals throughout the tournament.
During his acceptance speech, Lookman expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "This award is a blessing, to be recognised as best player in Africa is something incredible." He reflected on his challenging past, proclaiming, "Four years ago my career felt down but now I’m here as the best player in Africa. Don’t let your failures stop your dreams." His words served as inspiration to young athletes watching the event.
Lookman’s talent and hard work earned him this notable title among tough competition, edging out other esteemed players such as Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Guinea's Serhou Guirassy. Notably, he is only the seventh Nigerian player to receive this honor, following the footsteps of last year’s winner, Victor Osimhen.
At the same event, Zambia's Barbra Banda was recognized as the African Women’s Player of the Year, making history as the first Zambian to claim this accolade. Banda, who plays for Orlando Pride, was instrumental in securing her team’s first National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) Championship title, scoring the decisive goal against Kansas City.
Lookman’s recognition not only highlights his personal achievements but also marks Atalanta’s growing influence on the international football stage. Signing with Atalanta has proven to be transformative for Lookman's career since his arrival from Leicester City. He became the first-ever Atalanta player to be nominated for the prestigious international Ballon d'Or, finishing 14th on the rankings—a significant achievement reflecting his outstanding performances.
Throughout the 2023-2024 season, Lookman netted 17 goals and provided 10 assists across all competitions, including league and Europe. His excellent form has continued, and he maintains high hopes for the current season, already registering several goals to help Atalanta maintain their position at the top of Serie A.
His acknowledgment at the CAF awards serves as recognition not only of his skills and accomplishments on the pitch but also of his resilience and determination to overcome personal adversities throughout his career. The full circle he has experienced—transitioning from setbacks to the pinnacle of success—stands as testimony to his dedication to the sport.
Reflecting on the year, Lookman's consistent scoring and contributions have been instrumental to Atalanta's high standing and renown within European competitions. His performances resonate deeply with fans and aspiring players around the continent, reinforcing the narrative of shaping success through hard work and perseverance.
The evening of celebration also included notable appearances from various African artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere to honor the achievements within the football community. The significance of the CAF awards extends beyond just individual honors, representing the collective passion and talent across the African continent.
Football continues to flourish across Africa, with talents like Lookman and Banda paving the way for future generations. Their triumphs at the CAF Awards serve as beacons of hope, inspiring others to follow their dreams, showing the world the rich footballing heritage of the continent.
Ademola Lookman’s recognition as the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year encapsulates not just his personal victories, but also the broader narrative of African football’s growing prominence and the inspiring stories within the sport.
