Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman claimed the prestigious Africa Player of the Year award at the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday night. The 27-year-old forward, who committed his international future to Nigeria in 2022, has quickly become a pivotal figure in African football.

Lookman’s incredible year included leading the Super Eagles to a runner-up finish at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire and playing a starring role in Atalanta FC’s UEFA Europa League victory last season. This year, he has already registered 11 goals and five assists for Atalanta in just 18 matches.

The awards night also brought more triumphs for Nigeria, as goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie retained her Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year title, and the Super Falcons were crowned Women’s National Team of the Year for the second consecutive year.

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, accepted the Women’s National Team award on behalf of the Falcons and dedicated it to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. Gusau reaffirmed the NFF’s commitment to supporting women’s football.

Distinguished Guests and Key Moments

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF President Patrice Motsepe, and NFF dignitaries, including Gusau and FIFA Council Member Amaju Pinnick, attended the star-studded event. Pinnick, instrumental in convincing Lookman to represent Nigeria, reflected on his efforts with pride.

Lookman first represented the Super Eagles in March 2022, during a World Cup qualifier against Ghana. His rapid ascent to becoming Africa’s finest footballer underscores his exceptional talent and determination.

Among other Nigerian highlights, four Super Falcons players – Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Asisat Oshoala – were named in the CAF Best 11 Women, while Lookman and Victor Osimhen earned spots in the CAF Best 11 Men.

Full List of Award Winners

Men’s Player of the Year: Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Women’s Player of the Year: Barbra Banda (Zambia)
Men’s Coach of the Year: Emerse Faé (Côte d’Ivoire)
Women’s Coach of the Year: Lamia Boumehdi (TP Mazembe, Morocco)
Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)
Men’s Interclub Player of the Year: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa)
Women’s Interclub Player of the Year: Sanâa Mssoudy (AS FAR, Morocco)
Men’s Young Player of the Year: Lamine Camara (Senegal)
Women’s Young Player of the Year: Doha El Madani (AS FAR, Morocco)
Men’s National Team of the Year: Côte d’Ivoire
Women’s National Team of the Year: Super Falcons (Nigeria)
Men’s Club of the Year: Al Ahly (Egypt)
Women’s Club of the Year: TP Mazembe (DR Congo)
Goal of the Year: Mabululu (Angola vs. Namibia)
Best Referee (Women): Bouchra Karboubi (Morocco)
Best Referee (Men): Elvis Guy Nguegoue (Cameroon)

Best 11 Women:
Andile Dlamini; Michelle Alozie; Karabo Dhlamini; Osinachi Ohale; Lebohang Ramalepe; Linda Motlhalo; Rasheedat Ajibade; Ghizlane Chebbak; Barbra Banda; Asisat Oshoala; Tabitha Chawinga

Best 11 Men:
Andre Onana; Achraf Hakimi; Kalidou Koulibaly; Chancel Mbemba; Mohammed Kudus; Sofyan Amrabat; Franck Kessié; Yves Bissouma; Mohamed Salah; Victor Osimhen; Ademola Lookman

Outstanding Achievement Award: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi (Egypt) & President Paul Biya (Cameroon)

The 2024 CAF Awards highlighted Nigeria’s continued prominence in African football, as Lookman’s coronation as King of African football capped a memorable night for the country.