LAGOS, Nigeria — Nigerian international and Super Eagles winger, Ademola Lookman, was received by President Bola Tinubu at his Lagos residence on Friday, May 30, 2025, in recognition of his recent achievement as the 2024 CAF Footballer of the Year.
Lookman, 27, presented his award to the president during the courtesy visit, marking a symbolic moment of national pride for the player who became the second Nigerian in as many years to win the prestigious title — following Victor Osimhen’s win in 2023.
President Tinubu congratulated the forward on his exceptional performance over the past year, praising his contributions to Nigerian football and his growing reputation on the international stage.
Lookman earned the continental honour after a stellar 2023/24 season for both club and country.
The Atalanta winger scored 17 goals and provided 11 assists across all competitions, before capping the season with a historic hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen — a performance that secured Atalanta’s first-ever European title.
At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Côte d’Ivoire, Lookman also proved instrumental in Nigeria’s journey to the final, scoring three goals and earning a place in the tournament’s Best XI alongside national team captain William Troost-Ekong.
Returning to Nigeria following the conclusion of the 2024/25 Serie A season, Lookman added another 20 goals across all competitions to his record, helping Atalanta secure a third-place finish in the Italian league.
The president’s meeting with Lookman forms part of wider efforts to acknowledge the achievements of Nigerian athletes globally and inspire a new generation of talent.
Lookman’s visit comes as the Super Eagles prepare for their next round of fixtures in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
His form and leadership are expected to play a key role in Nigeria’s campaign.
