Nigerian Player, Ademola Lookman gives speech to appreciate winning the CAF player of the Year Award. He states that he will like to serve as an inspiration to young kids and create good footsteps for them to follow.

“For us to be able to give inspiration to the young kids who want to be like us is the most important thing. If we can set a good example, they have good footsteps to follow.”

“I am very appreciative of your love and care, and kind words in the bad moments also, not just the good moments. The people who show you love in the difficult moments are the people who you are most grateful to.”

The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Ademola Lookman, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons following their outstanding achievements at the 2024 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards.

The event, celebrated as a night of triumph, highlighted the exceptional talent coming from Nigeria and underscored the nation’s continued success on the international football stage.

Lookman was named the CAF Player of the Year, an honor that recognizes his stellar performance and immense contribution to football in Africa.

Chiamaka Nnadozie, on the other hand, was honored as the CAF Female Goalkeeper of the Year.

Meanwhile, the Super Falcons were celebrated as the CAF Female National Team of the Year.

In his statement, Dr. Mbah expressed immense pride in the achievements of these football stars, describing the night as one of pure glory for Nigeria.

He commended Lookman for his excellence and the remarkable performance that earned him the CAF Player of the Year award.

For Nnadozie, he praised her tireless efforts in goal, which have not only earned her the goalkeeper accolade but also solidified her as one of the best in African women’s football.

Furthermore, he extended his admiration to the Super Falcons, acknowledging their remarkable resilience and determination, which led to their recognition as Africa’s top women’s football team.

“You’ve proven yourselves to be stars, shining brightly not only for Nigeria but for Africa as a whole,” he stated.

“This is just the beginning, and I am confident that you will continue to elevate Nigerian football to new heights.”

Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman have been named to the prestigious 2024 CAF Best Africa XI.

The two Nigerian forwards, who have made significant contributions to their respective teams, are included in a forward line alongside Egyptian football legend and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah.

Osimhen’s inclusion comes as no surprise, following his remarkable year in 2023, where he was crowned the CAF Men’s Player of the Year.

His exceptional goal-scoring abilities and leadership on the field helped propel Napoli to the top of Serie A, earning him recognition as one of the best players in African football.

Lookman, who plays for Atalanta in Italy, earned his place in the prestigious lineup after his performance in the 2023-2024 season.

His consistent displays earned him the accolade of 2023 CAF Men’s Player of the Year in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday night.

Alongside Osimhen and Lookman in the Best Africa XI are some of the continent’s most talented footballers.

Cameroonian goalkeeper Andre Onana, known for his reflexes and leadership at Inter Milan, is part of the squad.

In defense, Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi, Senegalese defender Khalidou Koulibaly, and Congolese center-back Chancel Mbemba.

Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus also earns a spot in the lineup, alongside Morocco’s Sofyan Amrabat, Ivory Coast’s Franck Kessie, and Mali’s Yves Bissouma.